I’ve always been a fan of Terry Eagleton so was delighted to read his new book. How to Read Literature is something for debate and Eagleton attempts and succeeds to show readers how they can achieve a deeper understanding of literary texts by examining different aspects. He discusses through five chapters the concepts of Openings, Character, Narrative, Interpretation and Value. Eagleton is not a literary snob and happily uses a wide range of texts to support his theories from Shakespeare to the nursery rhyme “Baa Baa Black Sheep.” His sense of humour is laced throughout the book and makes for a deeply entertaining read. Eagleton is conscious never to overwhelm the reader by examining the text too forensically and unlike many other members of the Intelligentsia who consider their theories to be set in stone always reminds the reader that perspectives shift as time passes and culture evolves. A wonderful book for introduction to the process as a whole especially when wading into the murky waters of literary theory. Highly recommend