Michael Dirda Books

Engaging and insightful, this book features Michael Dirda's passionate critique of modern reading habits and his celebration of literature. Covering a diverse array of one hundred remarkable books, including popular genres like detective novels and ghost stories, Dirda highlights both beloved classics and lesser-known gems. His unique perspective as a Pulitzer Prize-winning literary essayist offers readers a deeper appreciation for the joy of reading. Short-listed for the Los Angeles Times Book Award, it showcases the exhilarating world of classic literature.

Growing up in rust-belt Ohio, Michael Dirda's memoir captures his deep passion for reading against the backdrop of a working-class family. He reflects on his childhood experiences in Lorain and at Oberlin College, intertwining memories of family, friends, and the literary figures that inspired him, from Green Lantern to Proust. This nostalgic narrative celebrates the joys of small-town life and the profound impact of literature, portraying a heartfelt homage to an era when reading was a cherished pursuit.

"Readings" is a collection of classic essays and reviews by Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Michael Dirda. Blending humor and insight, it reflects on his literary journey, from early influences to deep obsessions, exploring works by Beckett, Faulkner, Nabokov, and the Japanese epic, The Tale of Genji.

Exploring a diverse range of nearly 90 captivating books, the essays highlight masterpieces across genres such as fantasy, science fiction, horror, adventure, and children's literature. Dirda's writing combines affection with authoritative insights, offering readers a rich perspective on both classic and lesser-known works. Each essay serves as an invitation to discover the joy and depth found within these entertaining literary treasures.

From Pulitzer Prize–winning critic Michael Dirda, a delightful introduction to the creator of Sherlock Holmes A passionate lifelong fan of the Sherlock Holmes adventures, Pulitzer Prize–winning critic Michael Dirda is a member of The Baker Street Irregulars—the most famous and romantic of all Sherlockian groups. Combining memoir and appreciation, On Conan Doyle is a highly engaging personal introduction to Holmes's creator, as well as a rare insider’s account of the curiously delightful activities and playful scholarship of The Baker Street Irregulars. On Conan Doyle is a much-needed celebration of Arthur Conan Doyle’s genius for every kind of storytelling.

The book evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia, likening its warmth and engaging content to the familiar embrace of a beloved library. It invites readers to revisit its pages repeatedly, promising a stimulating experience that resonates deeply and encourages exploration of its themes.

Journalist Michael Kinsley has described Michael Dirda as “the best-read person in America,” then added “but he doesn’t rub it in.” Michael M. Thomas called him, in the New York Observer, “the best book critic in America." Nevertheless, no one named Michael was involved when Dirda was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his reviews in the Washington Post or when his recent book, On Conan Doyle, picked up an Edgar award from the Mystery Writers of America. Dirda's latest volume collects fifty of his poignant and puissant essays about “the literary life.” The result is a celebration, a fan’s notes, the perfect gift for any booklover or for one’s own bedtime browsing. For readers who admire Janet Flanner, Joseph Mitchell, Edmund Wilson and M.F. K. Fisher, this volume is the ideal literary companion. As admirers of his earlier books will expect, there are annotated lists galore—of perfect book titles, great adventure novels, favorite words, essential books about books, beloved children’s classics, and, not least, a revealing peek at the titles Michael keeps on his own nightstand.