This is an up-to-date critical collection on the work of contemporary British novelist, Julian Barnes. Julian Barnes is one of the most refined British writers and distinguished intellectuals of his generation whose rich body of work has been awarded many literary prizes both in the UK and abroad. Although primarily a novelist and essayist, the 'chameleon of British letters' has also written short stories, television scripts and a screenplay. This critical guide provides a wide range of current critical perspectives on Barnes' work from early bestselling novels "Flaubert's Parrot and "The History of the World in 10-1/2 Chapters" up to "Arthur and George". Including contributions by some of the finest critics working in the contemporary field, it reflects the richness and diversity of one of Britain's greatest living writers. "Guides in the Contemporary Critical Perspectives" series provide companions to reading and studying major contemporary authors. Each guide includes new critical essays combining textual readings, cultural analysis and discussion of key critical and theoretical issues in a clear, accessible style. They also include a preface by a major contemporary writer, a new interview with the author, discussion of film and TV adaptation and guidance on further reading.