In 'Cervantes', Jean Canavaggio delves into the life of the enigmatic author of 'Don Quixote', exploring the complexities of his character and the tumultuous era he lived in. From his battles against the backdrop of a decaying empire to his struggles as a writer, this biography paints a vivid portrait of Cervantes as both a man and an artist. Canavaggio's meticulous research reveals lesser-known aspects of Cervantes' life, adding depth to the legendary figure. As the narrative unfolds, readers are invited into a world of literary revolution and personal hardship. Will this exploration of Cervantes challenge everything you thought you knew about the creator of one of the greatest novels in history?
By Jean Canavaggio
Published: 1990
""In the struggle between dreams and reality, we are all but players on the stage of our own imagination, crafting tales that linger beyond our days.""
Renowned Cervantes scholar Canavaggio (U. of Caen, France) won the Prix Goncourt for biography in 1987 with the original French edition of this speculative inquiry into the life of the great Cervantes, author of Don Quixote. Translated from the French by J.R. Jones. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
Jean Canavaggio is a distinguished French author and scholar, renowned for his contributions to literary studies and his insightful works on French literature. He is best known for his critical works on the life and writings of the 17th-century playwright Molière, as well as his biographies of other prominent literary figures. Canavaggio's writing style combines rigorous analysis with accessible prose, making complex literary concepts understandable to a broad audience. His notable works include 'Molière: A Biography' and 'The Theatre of Molière,' among others. In addition to his literary pursuits, Canavaggio has taught at various esteemed universities, furthering the academic understanding of French literature.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin,' the iconic Founding Father takes readers on a captivating journey through his life, revealing his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a key figure in American history. Franklin shares insightful anecdotes of his innovative spirit, dedication to self-improvement, and adventurous pursuits in science, politics, and philosophy. His wit and wisdom shine through as he candidly reflects on his successes and failures, providing a wealth of lessons for modern readers. Readers will discover not only the story of a remarkable man but also the principles that shaped a nation. This autobiography invites us to ponder our own paths and the impact of our choices.
In 'Benjamin Franklin,' Walter Isaacson paints a vivid portrait of one of America's founding fathers, exploring not just his political contributions but also his personal life and philosophies. This engaging narrative delves into Franklin's insatiable curiosity and his multifaceted roles as an inventor, diplomat, and writer. Isaacson uncovers the man behind the legend, revealing Franklin's struggles with his identity and his relentless pursuit of knowledge. Readers will be captivated by Franklin's wit and wisdom, as well as his complex relationships with figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. This biography invites you to discover how Franklin's innovative ideas and candid reflections continue to shape modern America.
In 'Churchill', Clive Ponting delves into the tumultuous life of one of history's most iconic figures. The biography unravels Churchill's complex personality, revealing the blend of genius, ambition, and controversy that characterized his reign. With gripping anecdotes and detailed analyses, Ponting challenges traditional portrayals and invites readers to reconsider Churchill's legacy. Discover the man behind the myth as you explore his leadership during war and his influence on modern politics. This compelling narrative promises a fresh perspective that will leave you eager to learn more about this enigmatic leader.
No summary available
In 'Troublemakers', Leslie Berlin delves into the untold stories of Silicon Valley's pioneers, revealing how their audacity and vision sparked a technological revolution. Each chapter showcases the unique challenges and triumphs faced by these innovators, painting a vivid picture of the relentless spirit that drives progress. From the highs of groundbreaking success to the lows of devastating failures, Berlin captures the human element behind the tech giants. With a blend of personal anecdotes and historical insights, this book invites readers to reflect on the cost of innovation. Are you ready to uncover the secrets of the troublemakers who reshaped our world?
In 'Catherine the Great,' Robert K. Massie unveils the remarkable life of one of history's most intriguing rulers. From her humble beginnings as a German princess to becoming Empress of Russia, Catherine's journey is filled with bold ambition and sweeping reforms. Discover how she navigated the treacherous waters of love, power, and politics in a male-dominated world. Massie's masterful storytelling reveals the complexity of Catherine's character—she was both a passionate lover and a shrewd strategist. This biography not only chronicles her reign but also invites readers to explore the legacy of a woman who shaped an empire.
No summary available
In 'An Autobiography', Mohandas K. Gandhi shares the remarkable journey of his life, revealing the evolution of his philosophy of non-violence and truth. From his early years in India to his transformative experiences in South Africa, Gandhi exposes the struggles that shaped his commitment to social justice. His candid reflections on faith, morality, and personal growth challenge conventional beliefs and inspire readers to question their own values. This gripping narrative not only details his political activism but also provides an intimate look at his family life and spiritual pursuits. Discover the profound insights that guided one of history's most influential leaders in his quest for freedom and equality.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Blake Lively is an accomplished American actress best known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in the popular television series "Gossip Girl" (2007-2012). While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Lively has significantly impacted the entertainment industry with her versatile acting skills in films such as "The Age of Adaline" (2015) and "A Simple Favor" (2018). She has also been an advocate for various social causes, utilizing her platform to raise awareness about child exploitation and the importance of family dynamics. Lively's influence extends beyond acting, as she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her lifestyle brand, Preserve. Her dedication to both her craft and philanthropic efforts has made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.

David Blaine is an American illusionist, endurance artist, and magician, known for his daring and extreme stunts, such as being buried alive, encased in ice, and holding his breath underwater for a record-breaking amount of time. Blaine gained fame for his street magic performances, but his endurance feats have pushed the boundaries of what the human body can achieve. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to magic and illusion, combining elements of mysticism with physical and mental challenges. Blaine’s work has captivated audiences worldwide and has set new standards in the world of magic and performance art.

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

Cory Booker is a prominent American politician and author, currently serving as the junior United States Senator from New Jersey since 2013. Before his tenure in the Senate, he was the Mayor of Newark, where he gained national recognition for his efforts to reduce crime and revitalize the city. Booker is also a published author, with his 2016 memoir, "United," offering an insightful look into his political career and personal philosophy centered on social justice and community activism. His literary work emphasizes themes of unity, compassion, and the importance of public service. Booker's contributions to literature and politics highlight his commitment to fostering a more equitable society.

Mark Manson is a best-selling author and personal development expert known for his candid and no-nonsense approach to self-help. His most notable work, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been translated into numerous languages, resonating with readers for its practical advice and irreverent tone. Manson followed up with another successful book, "Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope," which further cemented his reputation as a thought leader in modern existentialism. In addition to his books, he runs a popular blog that delves into topics ranging from happiness to personal growth. His work has not only transformed the self-help genre but also influenced a global audience seeking authentic and actionable guidance.

Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.
Showing 8 of 16 related collections
“"In the struggle between dreams and reality, we are all but players on the stage of our own imagination, crafting tales that linger beyond our days."”
Cervantes
By Jean Canavaggio
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.