Routledge Writing and Power: A Critical Introduction to Composition Studies (Series in Critical Narratives)

This book offers a much needed alternative to the more traditional texts used to teach writing instruction. Grounded in history, the book clarifies changing theoretical and practical approaches to teaching writing, critically assessing each approach in relation to the social and political movements of the day, both within and beyond the university. The author takes us inside the real world of writing instruction; not only from the viewpoint of instructor, but as seen through the eyes of students struggling to make sense of the expectations of writing class. Mitchell emphasizes that "writing" entails far more than putting words to paper, and delves into contextually variable culturally defined expectations, that include multiple linguistic forms - both oral and written - highlighting the complexity of writing(s), while engaging the reader in lively academic debates about language and society. Review Candace Mitchell has written one of the most important and powerful books on composition studies yet published in North America. Theoretical rigor, poetic prose, intellectual courage, and pedagogical inventiveness are easily woven together so as to produce both a work of art and an outstanding book. It is filled with beauty, brilliance, and insight. This book does not merely make a contribution to composition and literacy studies, it is a landmark example of what a powerful mind and a masterful teacher can produce. Bravo! Henry Giroux About the Author Candace Mitchell is an assistant professor in the Graduate Program in Applied Linguistics at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Former editor of the Journal of Education at Boston University, she also edited (with Kathleen Weiler) the book Rewriting Literacy.