The Insider

"The Insider" by Gerald Howard is a compelling biography of Malcolm Cowley, a influential but often overlooked figure in American literary history. Through Cowley's career, the book explores the evolution of American fiction from the 1920s to the 1960s, highlighting his role in shaping the literary canon across multiple generations. Combining personal insights with the broader story of American culture and literature, the work offers a rich and nuanced account of an era marked by profound change. It is a significant contribution to understanding the birth and growth of American literary identity.