20th & 21st Century Philosophy 

Summaries can be used to provide an overview of major writings of prominent philosophers.  Key themes and the main ideas of the work are included in addition to a readable description of the text.

Roth, John K., ed. World Philosophers and Their Works. Pasadena, Calif. ; Hackenksack, N.J.: Salem Press, c2000. 3 volumes.
Reference 109 R845w v. 1-3

This three volume set surveys the lives and writings of over two hundred influential philosophers. Entries include a brief summary of the philosopher's major themes, a listing of principle writings, followed by a biographical essay. Essays describing each philosopher's most influential works are included in addition to bibliographical references. Volume 3 includes several useful indexes such as a chronological list of philosophers, glossary of terms, and indexes to the philosophical works covered in the set arranged by subject and title.