Political fiction is both a popular and a serious literary genre. Because political fiction is by definition complex, weaving political, historical, social and literary elements into the fabric of fiction, its study and teaching can be challenging. Patterns of Power in American Political Fiction presents a study of power as it manifests itself in ideology, structure, process and personality, and provides political and literary frameworks for critically examining and teaching political fiction. Thomas Kemme presents an approach to politics rooted in the perspectives of political scientists, along with a survey of the skills, qualities, and experiences that contribute to the continued success of a professional politician. Kemme examines classics of political fiction to show how politics and literary art merge to create both popular and serious fiction.