This study offers concise critical discussions of Stevenson's whole range of prose fiction, from
New Arabian Nights
to
The Ebb-Tide
. His most famous novels are covered as well as a selection of lesser-known works. It draws on other writings including letters, poetry and essays, but the main emphasis is on the strikingly varied sequence of novels and short stories. Stevenson's admittedly fascinating life is touched on only so as to provide a context for his writing. The book is arranged by the dates when the works were written rather than by when they were published, thus providing a profile of his development as a writer. The emphasis is on the diversity and energy of Stevenson's creativity, without seeking to stress distinctions frequently applied to it in the past, such as that between his 'stories for boys' and books apparently written for adults. All contribute to his richness.