This book offers a new evaluation of Albert Camus, leading novelist and a pioneer of existentialism. Thody analyses Camus' development as a prose writer and the creation of such classics as The Stranger. The book places Camus' philosophies and themes in context and provides helpful discussion for new readers of Camus and students. '...an excellent introduction to Albert Camus...interweaving of fact, fiction, biography, and allegory gives a warmth and direction to this book.' J.C.McLaren, University of Delaware