"The author's objective is ambitious - to chart the range and development of a regional literature that defies the label regionalism.... Fine's research is extensive and thorough, his observations shrewd and penetrating, and his command of the political, social, and cultural matrix profound, A major contribution." - Choice; "Fine... is a discerning critic but also an appreciative and even enthusiastic ... Read morereader of the books about which he is writing. Perhaps that's why Imagining Los Angeles is so full of punch and energy, so mercifully free of the impenetrable jargon that afflicts much scholarly and critical writing. Best of all, Fine sent me back to some of my old favorites with a fresh perspective, and he added a dozen new titles to my own reading list." - Jonathan Kirsch, Los Angeles Times; "Imagining Los Angeles is ambitious in its scope, solid in its mastery of the literature, and brilliantly interwoven throughout. David Fine has produced what will undoubtedly be the standard work on Los Angeles fiction for years to come, an indispensable reference work for the scholar and the general public alike. This is a prizeworthy work of social and cultural history, and a delight to read." - Thomas F. Andrews, Southern California Quarterly" Show Less