Culture Watch

Although Addams hoped for independence and a medical school education, graduation from Rockford sent her into the waters of duty, tragedy, and a nervous breakdown. In compelling narrative Knight spells out these events. More critically, she places Jane’s illness in the context 1880s medical and moral thinking including Jane’s belief "that she lacked the goodness of character to be truly self-denying." more »

"When I had finally finished The Master of Hestviken, I could hardly bear the realization that it wouldn’t be waiting by my chair of an evening, with yet another chapter to read. Great books are like great loves — delicious while they last, but when they… more »

If you missed or couldn't attend the National Book Festival this weekend or hadn't watched it on C-Span2 (Booktv.org), there are sources for author's interviews, a kids and teacher's guide, and author's podcasts. "Gateway to Knowledge" is expected to visit up to 60 sites in states across the Midwest and South over the next year. more »

It's hard to believe after reading this detailed, sympathetic story that its subject seems to be hardly known today. She was famous and highly esteemed, especially in the United States, as a novelist before her success reached England. more »