Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised May 27, 2026

Masterplots

Masterplots is a reference book series which summarizes the plots of significant works of literature and films. The first edition was published in 1949 by Frank N. Magill of Salem Press. As of 2020, the current version is the fourth edition, published in 2011.

Last revised
May 27, 2026
Read time
≈ 1 min
Length
158 w
Citations
3
Source
Masterplots
1954-1962 Masterplots
AuthorFrank N. Magill
LanguageEnglish
SubjectLiterature
Genrereference book
PublisherSalem Press
Publication date
1949
Publication placeUnited States

Masterplots is a reference book series which summarizes the plots of significant works of literature and films.1 The first edition was published in 1949 by Frank N. Magill of Salem Press.2 As of 2020, the current version is the fourth edition, published in 2011.3

The series offers 12,000 reference articles focusing on plot summaries, critical commentary, character profiles, literary settings and biographical profiles. In addition to the complete Fourth Edition, volumes are available on African American Literature, American Fiction Series, British & Commonwealth Fiction, Christian Literature, Drama, Juvenile & Young Adult Literature, Nonfiction, Poetry, Short Stories, and Women's Literature.

References

References

  1. Staff report (January 22, 1950). Recent Revision Extends 'Masterplots' Usefulness. Los Angeles Times
  2. Staff report (May 29, 1997). Obituaries; Frank N. Magill; Publisher of 'Masterplots.' Los Angeles Times
  3. Morin, Kimberly (2020-12-08). "Database of the Month: Salem Press". Bentley University. Retrieved 2026-04-16.
External links