"Alan R. Blackstock's study makes an important contribution to G. K. Chesterton studies. What makes 'The Rhetoric of Redemption' unique is its focus on Chesterton's rhetorical style and strategy and Blackstock's success in placing Chesterton's literary criticism within the broader historical context of 'fin de siecle' English cultural life. Chesterton always asserted that he wrote for the common man, but up until now there has been little study of the rhetorical strategy he employed to reach that group of readers. It is here that Blackstock's book makes its singular mark. He recognizes that the key to unlocking this dimension of Chesterton's purpose is the author's journalism. Blackstock's book explicates with straightforward, accessible prose how and why Chesterton was able to separate himself both rhetorically and philosophically from the aesthetes who were coming to define the age's cultural values." (Jay P. Corrin, Professor and Chair, Division of the Social Sciences, College of General Studies, Bo ston University)