John Sutherland’s How To Be Well Read is one of those books I find irresistible. Sutherland writes 500 short essays on a variety of books. The book is organized alphabetically by the title of the book (and there is an INDEX). As you would suspect, some of the choices are quirky. Of all of Michael Moorcock’s works, I’m not sure I would have picked Evening in Byzantium but Sutherland did. And, after reading the essay, I wanted to drop everything and reread some Michael Moorcock. Classic writers rub shoulders with contemporary writers on the same page. How To Be Well Read is a browser’s delight. Dip into this book, and you’ll be making lists of books to read. I did. GRADE: A
I’ve enjoyed the other collections of Sutherland’s essays.
Dan, I enjoyed Sutherland’s previous works, too. I especially liked: Henry V, War Criminal? & Other Shakespeare Puzzles.
This is exactly the kind of book I like. I always end up with a list of books to read.
Jeff, you will really enjoy HOW TO BE WELL READ. Sutherland doesn’t always choose the obvious title by a major writer. But the titles he does choose are intriguing.
George, I feel guilty when I read about great novels I have not yet read. This guide looks too tempting to ignore.
Prashant, you’ll find John Sutherland a reliable guide to literature. He’s also very witty. I recommend all of this books.
Looks great. See if my library has it.
Patti, you’ll find a lot to like in HOW TO BE WELL READ.
I’m sure it’s great, but why bother? I’ll never read any of them anyway.
Rick, there’s something for everyone in HOW TO BE WELL READ. Sutherland casts a wide net!