A confrontation with the elusive idea of ‘regional’ writing is the self-stated goal of this important and diverse new anthology. Editors Mark Vinz and Thom Tammaro, professors at Moorhead State University, believe that ‘the most positive and enduring sense of regional is indeed that link between particular and universal, local and international.’ They’ve shown that link in this accessible, highly readable volume, comprising work by 84 writers. Editors Vinz and Tammaro have done a commendable job of balancing the material included in this fine anthology. The many themes expressed are universal concerns, and the spirit of these stories and poems extends far beyond the specific or regional. These are not merely contemporary voices from the Midwest; they are contemporary voices from the world.

This splendid book collects work by Bill Holm, Leo Dangel, Phil Dacey, Frederick Manfred, Howard Mohr, along with Robert Bly, Herbert Scott, Roland Flint, William Stafford, Garrison Keillor and the equally fine—sometimes astonishingly fine—voices of other Midwestern writers who may be less well known. Inheriting the Land is distinguished not only by the variety and excellence of its inclusion but by intelligent organization: it is both more comprehensive and more coherent than most anthologies. The poems, stories, and essays in Inheriting the Land are all wonderfully readable.

Many images will remain with the reader. Most readers will appreciate how these authors have responded to their landscape and anticipate more collections.