title: Pat Conroy: A Critical Companion (Critical Companions to Popular Contemporary Writers)
author:  Landon C. Burns 
description: Grade 10 Up?Biographical information and critical analysis of this best-selling author are painstakingly presented. Conroy's dysfunctional family is well described in the first chapter. His authoritarian, career-military father's physical and mental abuse had a profound effect on him and ultimately became the model for the character of Bill Meecham in The Great Santini. His coming-of-age themes and how his novels fit into the "Southern genre" are extensively discussed in the critical analysis of his work. Plot, character development, and writing style are also examined. Burns has done a fine job of delving into the writer's life and works. Although the reading is tedious at times, this is a much-needed resource. Several single works on Conroy exist as well as numerous periodical citations, but none are as inclusive as this book.?Judy R. Johnston, Auburn High School, WA<br />Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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  Praise for David Burnsworth
  
  
  “Burnsworth nails the voice of new Southern noir. This talented author will
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  – Hank Phillippi Ryan,
  
  
  Mary Higgins Clark Award-Winning Author of Say No More
  
  
  
  
  
  “Hop on board for a hard-edged debut that’s fully loaded with car chases
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  – Library Journal
  
  
  
  
  
  “This second case for Brack is marked by a challenging mystery, quirky
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  “In Brack Pelton, Burnsworth introduces a jaded yet empathetic character I
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  Agatha Award-Winning Author of Lowcountry Book Club
  
  
  
  
  
  “Burnsworth is outstanding as he brings out the heat, the smells, the colors,
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