"Study focuses on theme of drought in eight Brazilian novels. In O sertanejo, José de Alencar invents a landscape of desert. In Os retirantes, José do Patrocínio emphasizes people's mystical engagement, which contrasts with the scientific approach of Rodolfo Teófilo in A fome. Rachel de Queiroz assumes the spirituality of Patrocínio in O quinze, while Graciliano Ramos, in Vidas secas, presents a comprehensive vision of drought through individual dreams and introspective characters against the backdrop of a harsh nature that pushes humans to the edge of sanity. Author emphasizes the birth of a corrupt 'industry' of the drought, manipulated by politicians, and the ever-persevering religious attitudes of the humble people who endure the absence of rain for extended periods of time"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.