After noting for any interested Forumite that I was one of the advisers
for  the OXFORD COMPANION TO MARK TWAIN, I add to a  recent review of it
on the Forum: Oxford UP makes a mistake in promoting the COMPANION as an
encyclopedic tool primarily. Its heart (as well as soul) lies in Gregg
Camfield's  essays--not just entries--on Twain's major writings and ideas.
Camfield's essays impress me as keenly original, insightful, and often
eloquent.  They are rewarding even for those who have already followed up
on some particular subject.  The book will last long  as eminently
companionable.