The Literary Life and Other Curiosities

by Robert Hendrickson

Presents a collection of unusual and entertaining facts and myths about writers, books, word origins, publishers, critics, grammar, and other aspects of the world of literature

Genres: Nonfiction, Books About Books

498 pages, Paperback

First published November 18, 1982

Reviews

[Michael Hawkes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a good compliment to Bill Bryson's The Mother Tongue: English and How It Got That Way , except this book mainly deals with literature and authors. There is some overlap with Bryson's book, such as information about Shakespeare coining words, for example. However, the differences between the books make them both worthwhile reading.

Probably one thing to note is this book was written in the early 1980's so some of it is dated, especially with regard to technology. It mentioned word processors costing thousands of dollars, which they did at the time. Aside from a few items like that, the book is timeless.

[Victor · Rating 4 out of 5]

it's the vade mecum of coffetable or nightstand readers. you just open it up to any page and learn something cool or be reminded of an obscure fact you had forgotten. a really cool book to give as a gift to book lovers and writers.

[David Lumpkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book thoroughly. It can make you laugh out loud, or at times, perhaps, cry a little. All the stories in it are interesting and, to my estimation, profitable knowledge. Peering into the real life of some authors, helps in understanding their life, the art and their words. This is the second book I've read by Hendrickson, the first being "British Literary Anecdotes". Having enjoyed the first, I went looking for more and found this one. I will be finding more, perhaps by Hendrickson, or others. Hendrickson, on many accounts, quoted other authors. Some of the books were already in my library, some have been added, and others yet to be found. I recommend the read highly.

[TrumanCoyote · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bob does though tend to get a bit prissy in spots.

[Glen Engel-Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

Think of this as a primer for the brown questions in Trivial Pursuit, both in the nature of its short, pithy paragraphs and subject matter. I kept this book by my bedside as something I could read and put down at any time without having to worry about dropping the thread of the narrative. Hendrickson has brought together in one book all the myriad anecdotes, witticisms, and lists about books and authors, as well as a new chapter in this revised edition "Of Editors and Agents." This book won't change your life, but if you love writers and writing, it makes for many evenings' pleasant divertimento.

[Kathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Clearly inspired by The Book of Lists, this 1978 volume notes the habits, work environments, and oddities of (mostly) pre-20th century writers. I'd give it a higher rating if it contained a most necessary index.

[Caryn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting tidbits about famous writers and their often strange lives.

[Sarah Houldcroft · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fascinating old book full of interesting and fun literary facts. Great to dip in to again and again

[Jill Edmondson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An old fave! I pick it it & flip through it again and again.