Combining richness of interpretation and the intellectual challenge to readers, this volume surveys the vast theme of political fiction. Four contextual essays discuss prevailing themes within the genre, including the Cold War period and the aftermath of 9/11. Ten additional essays go on to discuss individual authors, including Joseph Conrad, George Orwell, Doris Lessing, Russell Banks, Don DeLillo, and Robert Stone.

Each essay is 2,500 to 5,000 words in length, and all essays conclude with a list of ""Works Cited,"" along with endnotes. Finally, the volume's appendixes offer a section of useful reference resources.