'Rich, imaginative, subversive and playful' James Wood, Observer 'An elegant, learned and convincing book' Mary Beard, Independent 'Doody, vigorously, entertainingly and with great detailed learning, has invaluably extended the debate about fiction.' Malcolm Bradbury, Financial Times 'Doody's book is like a vast, all-embracing novel, packed with extraordinary sub-narratives and an engrossing storyline. It should be read by all who criticise fiction, and by many who write it.' Humphrey Carpenter, Sunday Times