EA Poe has been my favorite author since I was a child. As a teacher of American literature, I did everything I could to include him during our study of the Dark Romantics. Oh, how I wish I had had this book when I was still teaching! Kevin Hayes has outdone himself with his intense and earnest research. One will learn not only the background of each story, but also visit the time periods, places, and people (real or imagined) that had an influence on Poe and added to his creations. For people who want to truly delve into the psyche of some of the most read and/or valued stories and poems of Poe, this is the book for you. ( )