The Writer as Illusionist

William Maxwell, a pivotal figure in shaping the literary short story during his tenure at The New Yorker, was also a talented novelist and essayist. Alec Wilkson, drawing from his deep friendship with Maxwell, has curated a collection of the author's lesser-known and unpublished works. This compilation offers a unique glimpse into Maxwell's literary contributions, showcasing both his fiction and nonfiction, enriched by insights from his private papers.