James Whitcomb Riley: A Life

by Elizabeth J. Van Allen

"... a thorough biography that should supplant all previous attempts to understand the man." ―H-Net Reviews
"... new, thorough and highly readable... " ―Indianapolis Star
Few literary figures have achieved the fame of James Whitcomb Riley, the most popular poet in America at the end of the 19th century―the height of his career. Legends and rumors either elevate Riley as a hero who gave Hoosiers pride of place, or denigrate him as a drunken author of Victorian doggerel. In this first serious modern biography of Riley, Van Allen sifts facts from fiction to paint the truest portrait of this controversial poet.

Genres: Biography

368 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1999

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A “must-read” for any Hoosier, James Whitcomb Riley’s life in a post Civil War era was pivotal in establishing Indiana’s presence as a calming place for youth. His poems will be treasured forever. The author did an exemplary work in preserving and contrasting Riley’s stature as a preeminent poet.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Used for a brown bag at the HCPL. Home of the great Riley. The group found it interesting but many had a hard time getting through it due to the scope and depth. Very fact heavy.

IMO - This is an academic book written by a scholar of JWR. Had a good flow, easy to understand and follow for the most part. Very... very comprehensive. If you couldn't tell, this is not a book for leisure reading.