Genuine Reality: A Life of William James

I enjoyed this book quite a bit. However, there are a few reasons why I didn't give it five stars: 1) The writing is decent, but not nearly so good that I actually enjoyed the writing itself as distinct from the content. 2) Simon seems very sure of herself when discussing the motivations of Henry James Sr., especially. I got the sense that Henry Sr., at least, could have been treated with a bit more nuance and charity... Read Full Review

Very nicely done biography, Simon seems to be a meticulous, sympathetic critic of her subjects. While I enjoyed reading about this legendary figure in American philosophy and psychology, I ended up being less impressed by him than before. Such disenchantment is probably the hallmark of reading a good biography, as it necessarily brings the mighty down to fallible human dimensions. I had always wondered what it was about... Read Full Review

The truly great men in early American history, in my humble opinion, are as follows:Thomas JeffersonRalph Waldo EmersonSamuel Clemens (Mark Twain)William JamesBecause of their intense individualism, idealistic views, and unique personalities, their writings, thoughts and ideas continue to affect western civilzation into the 21st century. Let me just say at the start - I'm not proposing a forum for argument, debating the worth... Read Full Review

I pride myself on being a William James buff and this biography by Linda Simon has proven to be the best, most accurate portrayal ever written. If you don't believe my review, take a look at the excellent review of the book by the New York Times. I hightly recommend this book to all those who have enjoyed Linda Simon's previous biographies, and to all those who agree William James is a man worth remembering.

I'm about halfway through this wonderful book and am enjoying it. I have a question for the author--she states that James met his wife in a house at 77 Chestnut Street on Boston's Beacon Hill. However, the photographs identify this house as 13 Chestnut Street. The numbers on Beacon Hill have been changed over the years, but I wonder if this is a discrepancy of error?? I would be very interested if anyone out there knows... Read Full Review