The Twilight Mystique

A variety of writers examine Stephenie Meyer's series in an attempt to explain just what makes these books so hotly debated by fans and critics alike. The well-reasoned and -researched selections cover the literary sources that inspired Meyer, from classic fairy tales, Shakespeare, C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, Jane Austen, and Emily Brontë to Anne Rice. Many of the 13 essays explain how Meyer's practice of Mormonism and its theology manifests itself in her books and influences her characters' actions, although the author is quoted as saying that she didn't write them to promote or convert readers to her religion. Other selectionss explore how Meyer incorporates the history of Gothic fiction, Quileute shape-shifters and vampire lore, and the real Forks, WA, into her novels. Not surprisingly, several of the most critical essays offer differing opinions on whether Belle is a passive or active heroine and a positive role model for girls. After reading these essays, all of which include source notes, skeptical librarians may find themselves looking at the books in a new light. This volume will be useful for librarians, teachers, and fans with an interest in the novels or as a resource for university-level course work.—Sharon Rawlins, New Jersey State Library, Trenton