Reviews of Readings

“Whether he is meditating on the new media technology, discussing his own failings, decrying postmodernism, or simply critiquing a new novel, Birkerts is a joy to read. The sincerity of his ideas shines through on every page, and his self-effacing candor is a refreshing change from the ironic critical stances that seem to dominate these days….Whether or not you agree with Birkerts’ positions, you will find yourself ruminating on his themes long after you have finished reading.” —Booklist

“Funny, arch, acerbic, and humanistic, Birkerts’s essays remind us that the ability to give ourselves over to writing that requires contemplation has not yet vanished. This master of reflection leaves us with the feeling that he toils over every word and deserves equal effort from us.” —San Francisco Bay Guardian

“Some of the most finely wrought, and deeply considered, criticism being written today.” —Publishers Weekly