From 1929 to the latest issue, American Literature has been the foremost journal expressing the findings of those who study our national literature. American Literature has published the best work of literary historians, critics, and bibliographers, ranging from the founders of discipline to the best current critics and researchers. The longevity of this excellence lends a special distinction to the articles in American Literature.

Presented in order of their first appearance, the articles in each volume constitute a revealing record of developing insights and important shifts of critical emphasis. Each article has opened a fresh line of inquiry, established a fresh perspective on a familiar topic, or settled a question that engaged the interest of experts.

"The journal American Literature was founded in 1929 and since that time has regularly published important articles on the study of literature in the United States. Many of the articles that appeared in the journal have, in fact, become the 'standard view' or 'the final word’ on a particular literary subject. . . . The series will be an important acquisition for every college library." - Choice