Many women writers have secured a solid place in the literary canon, while other have remained marginalized. This reference work includes substantial alphabetically arranged entries on 70 women writers whose works are widely read internationally. While most of these women are from Britain and America, the volume also profiles Chilean, Brazilian, Indian, South African, Australian, French, and German authors. The writers selected are feminist, in that their works have challenged traditional gender roles, explored female oppression, or critiqued patriarchal social structures. In addition, the encyclopedia includes entries on some 20 related topics, such as "Domesticity," "Friendship," "Gothic," and "Spirituality." Each author entry includes biographical information, an extensive summary treatment of at least one of her works, a list of her other major works, cross-references to related entries, and a list of works for further reading. What distinguishes this encyclopedia from other volumes addressing feminist literature is the interpretative summary in each entry. The volume closes with a list of works cited. Entries are clearly written and are accessible to school students and undergraduates.