Plot Summary

Samuel Johnson

John Wain
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Samuel Johnson

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1974

Book Brief

John Wain

Samuel Johnson

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1974
Book Details
Pages

388

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 18th Century

Publication Year

1974

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Samuel Johnson by John Wain is a biography focusing on the life and achievements of the eighteenth-century English writer Samuel Johnson. Using mainly established sources, Wain explores Johnson's early struggles with health and poverty, his turbulent education, and subsequent literary career, which includes his monumental work on the first comprehensive English dictionary. The biography also examines Johnson's close relationships, particularly with his wife Tetty and friend James Boswell, and his later years marked by professional success and personal losses. The book touches on themes of friendship, faith, and personal hardship throughout Johnson's life. The biography contains sensitive topics including childhood disfigurement, terminal illness, alcohol dependency, and guilt over neglecting loved ones.

Informative

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Melancholic

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.4

103 ratings

88%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Wain’s Samuel Johnson is praised for its engaging narrative and thorough research, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the 18th-century literary giant. However, some critics note that the book occasionally delves too deeply into minor details, potentially overwhelming casual readers. Overall, it is a valuable addition to Johnsonian studies for both scholars and general readers alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Samuel Johnson?

A reader who would enjoy Samuel Johnson by John Wain likely has an interest in 18th-century literature, biography, and critical analysis. Similar readers might appreciate James Boswell's The Life of Samuel Johnson or Richard Holmes's Dr. Johnson and Mr. Savage. This book appeals to those fascinated by literary giants and their contributions to English literature.

4.4

103 ratings

88%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

388

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 18th Century

Publication Year

1974

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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