1Unrivaled diversity and ease of use have made THE HEATH ANTHOLOGY OF AMERICAN LITERATURE: VOLUME A: BEGINNINGS TO 1800, 7th Edition, a best-selling text since 1989, when the first edition was published. In presenting a more inclusive canon of American literature, the seventh edition of Volume A continues to balance the traditional, leading names in American literature with lesser-known writers. Available in five volumes for greater flexibility, the 7th Edition offers thematic groupings, called" In Focus," to stimulate classroom discussions and showcase the treatment of important topics across the genres.