Dear World

November 1, 2014

For those deeply interested in the diary form, Cardell (lecturer, Flinders Univ., Australia) delves into the contemporary aspects of this genre. He explains the historical framework of the diary as a method (often associated with women) of recording daily events as they happened, generally for private use, and in an authentic voice with little editing. Moving quickly into contemporary times, the author analyzes how the concept of "diary" has changed throughout the years. He contends there are three major types of modern diary: those written during conflicts, by soldiers, journalists, and others caught in the crossfire; sex and confession blogging; and graphic journals, made up primarily or entirely of drawings, as well as diaries that include found items, sketches, or souvenirs. VERDICT This title will have appeal for serious students of literary forms such as memoir, diary, and autobiography. The endnotes are well written and add greatly to the reading experience. Extensive citations document the breadth of sources used in exploring the diary as both intimate record and public testimony. Suitable for academic collections.--Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley Sch., Fort Worth, TX

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