This first illustrated, annotated version of the American classic was highly praised when it was first released, as much for John Hallwas's insightful introduction as for the work of Edgar Lee Masters.

Edgar Lee Masters (1868–1950) was the author of many books of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. His The Sangamon and Across Spoon River have been reissued in the Prairie State Books series. John E. Hallwas, is Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Western Illinois University. His books include Studies in Illinois Poetry. and Dime Novel Desperadoes: The Notorious Maxwell Brothers.