Kirkus Reviews
March 11, 2024
This book features many of Johnson’s quotes, along with Jones’ accompanying learned commentary and historical context. Although the author doesn’t hide his admiration for his subject, he’s also unafraid to explore Johnson’s personal difficulties, including episodes of depression, and personal aspects, such as his sexual habits. As a biography that targets general readers, the book more than succeeds in its mission to offer an accessible account of Johnson’s life and work in fewer than 200 pages.
FULL REVIEW HERE
Teri M Brown
April 15, 2024
Wayne does a great job helping us understand the nuances of Sam’s personality…. I was most fascinated with his dictionary of the English language. Unlike many previous dictionaries, Sam included ordinary words and provided examples…. This is a quick but fun read that will give you some insight into an author you may not know.
FULL REVIEW HERE
Grub Street Lodger
March 13, 2024
Jones gives a clear and condensed version of Johnson’s life.
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The US Review of Books
2024
As an entry point into further reading aimed at general readers, Jones’ book explores Sam’s writing (his livelihood) and his person. Short “Digressions” from the chronology of major events, such as the failures (running a school) and the accomplishments in Sam’s life are segued between the chapters. The digressions serve to contextualize Sam in a colorful, historical snapshot of eighteenth-century Britain…. Full of facts as well as anecdotes, illustrations, and an index for further reading, this is an honest and compassionate portrayal of a lesser-known literary figure worth knowing more about.
FULL REVIEW HERE