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The Autobiography of Isaac Asimov #2
In Joy Still Felt: The Autobiography, 1954-1978
The second volume in the autobiography of this prolific science fiction writer, who was also a child prodigy and a renowned professor. This recounts his career from his first book to his 200th, from early rejections to critical acclaim. Photographs, a catalog of his books by Asimov, title and name indexes.
840 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 1980
6 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Isaac Asimov
4,337 books27.6k followersWorks of prolific Russian-American writer Isaac Asimov include popular explanations of scientific principles,
The Foundation Trilogy
(1951-1953), and other volumes of fiction.
Isaac Asimov, a professor of biochemistry, wrote as a highly successful author, best known for his books.
Asimov, professor, generally considered of all time, edited more than five hundred books and ninety thousand letters and postcards. He published in nine of the ten major categories of the Dewey decimal classification but lacked only an entry in the category of philosophy (100).
People widely considered Asimov, a master of the genre alongside Robert Anson Heinlein and Arthur Charles Clarke as the "big three" during his lifetime. He later tied Galactic Empire and the Robot into the same universe as his most famous series to create a unified "future history" for his stories much like those that Heinlein pioneered and Cordwainer Smith and Poul Anderson previously produced. He penned "Nightfall," voted in 1964 as the best short story of all time; many persons still honor this title. He also produced well mysteries, fantasy, and a great quantity of nonfiction. Asimov used Paul French, the pen name, for the Lucky Starr, series of juvenile novels.
Most books of Asimov in a historical way go as far back to a time with possible question or concept at its simplest stage. He often provides and mentions well nationalities, birth, and death dates for persons and etymologies and pronunciation guides for technical terms. Guide to Science, the tripartite set Understanding Physics, and Chronology of Science and Discovery exemplify these books.
Asimov, a long-time member, reluctantly served as vice president of Mensa international and described some members of that organization as "brain-proud and aggressive about their IQs." He took more pleasure as president of the humanist association. The asteroid 5020 Asimov, the magazine Asimov's Science Fiction, an elementary school in Brooklyn in New York, and two different awards honor his name.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac_As...
Isaac Asimov, a professor of biochemistry, wrote as a highly successful author, best known for his books.
Asimov, professor, generally considered of all time, edited more than five hundred books and ninety thousand letters and postcards. He published in nine of the ten major categories of the Dewey decimal classification but lacked only an entry in the category of philosophy (100).
People widely considered Asimov, a master of the genre alongside Robert Anson Heinlein and Arthur Charles Clarke as the "big three" during his lifetime. He later tied Galactic Empire and the Robot into the same universe as his most famous series to create a unified "future history" for his stories much like those that Heinlein pioneered and Cordwainer Smith and Poul Anderson previously produced. He penned "Nightfall," voted in 1964 as the best short story of all time; many persons still honor this title. He also produced well mysteries, fantasy, and a great quantity of nonfiction. Asimov used Paul French, the pen name, for the Lucky Starr, series of juvenile novels.
Most books of Asimov in a historical way go as far back to a time with possible question or concept at its simplest stage. He often provides and mentions well nationalities, birth, and death dates for persons and etymologies and pronunciation guides for technical terms. Guide to Science, the tripartite set Understanding Physics, and Chronology of Science and Discovery exemplify these books.
Asimov, a long-time member, reluctantly served as vice president of Mensa international and described some members of that organization as "brain-proud and aggressive about their IQs." He took more pleasure as president of the humanist association. The asteroid 5020 Asimov, the magazine Asimov's Science Fiction, an elementary school in Brooklyn in New York, and two different awards honor his name.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaac_As...
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 15, 2021
This is the very detailed autobiography of Isaac Asimov and covers the years 1954 to 1978; the companion volume, In Memory Yet Green, starts with his birth in 1920 and goes to 1954. Asimov's style is very slick, smooth, simple, and addictive, and captures the attention of the reader completely, even though you may realize after an hour that not much has happened in the last fifty pages. His ego and attitude may be a bit off-putting at times, but his remarkable memory of events and details is marvelous, and his opinions and perspectives on other science fiction celebrities is particularly fascinating. It also provides an educated look at the political, social, and scientific changes, events, and viewpoints of the mid-twentieth century and how he and those around him viewed them at the time. It's a great two-volume historical work, not just for science fiction fans.
October 1, 2014
To begin with, I think one has to be a serious Isaac Asimov fan in order to be willing to slog through over 1400 pages of his two part autobiography. This book, and the volume 1 companion, "In memory yet green" (which I read years ago), are definitely not for the faint of heart, or the casual reader.
Having said that, I really enjoyed this book. I have always enjoyed Isaac Asimov's writing style - both his Sci Fi stuff, as well as his non-fiction science writing. I'm also old enough to remember Asimov's presence at Sci Fi conventions, and occasional TV appearances, and was curious what this man who wrote so prodigiously was really like. Was he kind of a 'writing savant"? Did he have any interests outside of writing? Did he have an ego as big as his book cover photos and author bios sometimes suggested?
When there is an author I thoroughly enjoy, like Asimov, it is nice to get some background on the personal life. Here Asimov provides it in droves. To be sure, Asimov does not tell the whole story of his divorce, etc. But you get a good glimpse into his writing habits, where he got his ideas, the evolution of the publishing industry over the 50 years he covers, the birth and growth of fandom conventions over the same years, etc.
I actually had a collection of his Sci Fi short stories next to me, and when ever he would mention writing a certain story in his autobiography (where the idea came from, where the story was first published, etc), I would read read the short story. This proved to me to be a great way to follow Asimovs life.
Again, this book is likely not for everyone. But I enjoyed it.
Having said that, I really enjoyed this book. I have always enjoyed Isaac Asimov's writing style - both his Sci Fi stuff, as well as his non-fiction science writing. I'm also old enough to remember Asimov's presence at Sci Fi conventions, and occasional TV appearances, and was curious what this man who wrote so prodigiously was really like. Was he kind of a 'writing savant"? Did he have any interests outside of writing? Did he have an ego as big as his book cover photos and author bios sometimes suggested?
When there is an author I thoroughly enjoy, like Asimov, it is nice to get some background on the personal life. Here Asimov provides it in droves. To be sure, Asimov does not tell the whole story of his divorce, etc. But you get a good glimpse into his writing habits, where he got his ideas, the evolution of the publishing industry over the 50 years he covers, the birth and growth of fandom conventions over the same years, etc.
I actually had a collection of his Sci Fi short stories next to me, and when ever he would mention writing a certain story in his autobiography (where the idea came from, where the story was first published, etc), I would read read the short story. This proved to me to be a great way to follow Asimovs life.
Again, this book is likely not for everyone. But I enjoyed it.
April 27, 2016
I loved Asimov ever since I came across Second Foundation and Currents of Space at the age of 8 or 9, nearly 60 years ago. His character as the "Good Doctor" in his introduction to his science articles in the Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (read by me in the many collective volumes) has probably done more to shape me than anything else in my life.
His writing is unputdownable regardless the subject he his writing about. His autobiographies just provide a huge amount to read. Much of what he writes in his autobiography he has told elsewhere in snippets (in his introduction to his and others books for example) but to have it altogether, in order and greater detail is great.
He was the great rationalist but has always come across as very likeable and human. His second wife Janet apparently felt the first two volumes of his autobiography were too detailed, I must disagree.
His writing is unputdownable regardless the subject he his writing about. His autobiographies just provide a huge amount to read. Much of what he writes in his autobiography he has told elsewhere in snippets (in his introduction to his and others books for example) but to have it altogether, in order and greater detail is great.
He was the great rationalist but has always come across as very likeable and human. His second wife Janet apparently felt the first two volumes of his autobiography were too detailed, I must disagree.
June 10, 2015
Perhaps one of the most honest autobiographies I have ever read. Contains not only the accomplishments and self-praises but many of Asimov's weaknesses and foibles as well. It may seem too self-centered for many readers, but it can be very entertaining for those who appreciate his candor and sense of humor.
December 2, 2016
More of the same, continuing from the first volume.
Still a bit too much recitation of stories sold, and even more now, talks given, and the sometimes lifeless description of the journeys too and fro. As Asimov ages and remarries, however, he becomes a bit more adventurous with his travels, and when he veers into the narration of what he does beyond selling stories and giving talks, the book becomes that more interesting and entertaining.
As the book ends with hints of lessening health, I looked ahead to I, Asimov, sneaking a peak as to why it wasn't continuing with the title (and, presumably, tone) of the previous books. There on the back cover of the first edition hardcover, his dates of birth and death, and in the spied upon introduction, talk of his ill health. I stopped with no more than a glance and am looking forward to the next, last volume as, hopefully, more revealing of the person (rather than the work done by the person), but sad in the knowledge of what I presume (and I'm guessing at this point) is his own knowledge of they story ending soon after (or during?) the writing.
Anyway, I guess that's all irrelevant of this book, and, depending on how the last volume goes, maybe I just wrote part of my review for that back before even reading it! Huh.
Still a bit too much recitation of stories sold, and even more now, talks given, and the sometimes lifeless description of the journeys too and fro. As Asimov ages and remarries, however, he becomes a bit more adventurous with his travels, and when he veers into the narration of what he does beyond selling stories and giving talks, the book becomes that more interesting and entertaining.
As the book ends with hints of lessening health, I looked ahead to I, Asimov, sneaking a peak as to why it wasn't continuing with the title (and, presumably, tone) of the previous books. There on the back cover of the first edition hardcover, his dates of birth and death, and in the spied upon introduction, talk of his ill health. I stopped with no more than a glance and am looking forward to the next, last volume as, hopefully, more revealing of the person (rather than the work done by the person), but sad in the knowledge of what I presume (and I'm guessing at this point) is his own knowledge of they story ending soon after (or during?) the writing.
Anyway, I guess that's all irrelevant of this book, and, depending on how the last volume goes, maybe I just wrote part of my review for that back before even reading it! Huh.
August 31, 2010
This is the second volume of Asimov's 2-volume autobiography. Asimov kept a diary for yearsnad the book is quite detailed--over 1,000 pages.
But as a man who make a living writing on muliple subjects--fiction and non-fiction--Asimov's skilled write and clear prose style makes this book read quickly.
Asimov is a great storyteller, and tells many interesting anecdotes and stories. Again, as in the first volume of his auto biography (In memory Yet Green), the subject is not just Asimov hosmelf.
There are many detailsabout current events of the period; lots of infomrmation about academia; the publishing industry, and, especially other well known 'names' in the Science Fiction community. Asimov was was freinds with Heinlein, Clarke, Niven, Ellison, Silverberg, both Lester and Judy-Lynn Del Rey--and numerous others. This book is packedwith a great deal of interesting information.
A must for any Asimov fan, many Sf readers would enjoy it also. Fans of history and biography also might find it of interest.
But as a man who make a living writing on muliple subjects--fiction and non-fiction--Asimov's skilled write and clear prose style makes this book read quickly.
Asimov is a great storyteller, and tells many interesting anecdotes and stories. Again, as in the first volume of his auto biography (In memory Yet Green), the subject is not just Asimov hosmelf.
There are many detailsabout current events of the period; lots of infomrmation about academia; the publishing industry, and, especially other well known 'names' in the Science Fiction community. Asimov was was freinds with Heinlein, Clarke, Niven, Ellison, Silverberg, both Lester and Judy-Lynn Del Rey--and numerous others. This book is packedwith a great deal of interesting information.
A must for any Asimov fan, many Sf readers would enjoy it also. Fans of history and biography also might find it of interest.
December 31, 2015
I have always enjoyed Isaac Asimov's writing style and envied his breadth of knowledge. In other words, I went into this book fully expecting to enjoy myself.
I did.
Asimov's conversational style is just easy for me to read. It's like talking to a dear friend, who is utterly fascinating, even though he is especially fascinated with himself. He brought me up to date on what happened in Volume 1, and gave hints about what happens In Volume 3.
Did I mention that he is also fascinated with himself? Four volumes worth…
I look forward to eventually reading Volume 1, but I don't think I will get to 3 or 4. I would much rather revisit some of his fiction, and introduce myself to some that I haven't read. I might tackle his history of the Roman Empire.
In all this, I suspect that I will enjoy reading his material even more than I normally would have. I have clues about where it fit into his own life story.
I did.
Asimov's conversational style is just easy for me to read. It's like talking to a dear friend, who is utterly fascinating, even though he is especially fascinated with himself. He brought me up to date on what happened in Volume 1, and gave hints about what happens In Volume 3.
Did I mention that he is also fascinated with himself? Four volumes worth…
I look forward to eventually reading Volume 1, but I don't think I will get to 3 or 4. I would much rather revisit some of his fiction, and introduce myself to some that I haven't read. I might tackle his history of the Roman Empire.
In all this, I suspect that I will enjoy reading his material even more than I normally would have. I have clues about where it fit into his own life story.
August 10, 2011
FINISHED THIS HUGE BOOK. This book follows the equally gigantic tome IN MEMORY YET GREEN. Good titles. I'm skipping that one. In IN JOY STILL FELT, his descriptions of everyday events is fascinating somehow. I need to get my own copy after I take this back to the library. UPDATE: Got one really cheap cheap on ebay. It's the hardback with a plastic cover. Nice. Eleven bucks including postage.
I, ASIMOV is his third and smaller autobiography, and I'll read that next. Like I, ROBOT -- get it? Har.
I, ASIMOV is his third and smaller autobiography, and I'll read that next. Like I, ROBOT -- get it? Har.
August 10, 2011
I'm on about page 600 now. This book follows the equally gigantic tome IN MEMORY YET GREEN. Good titles. I'm skipping that one. In IN JOY STILL FELT, his descriptions of everyday events is fascinating somehow. I need to get my own copy after I take this back to the library.
I, ASIMOV is his third and smaller autobiography, and I'll read that next. Like I, ROBOT -- get it? Har.
I, ASIMOV is his third and smaller autobiography, and I'll read that next. Like I, ROBOT -- get it? Har.
August 9, 2016
I was browsing the library shelves when I discovered this wonderful book. I loved all the pictures and the wonderful tidbits about the sci-fi authors I grew up reading, many of them who have since passed away.
Read
November 13, 2012A wealth of information is contained within. I can't wait to read the other 2 books in the series.
March 4, 2024
Heerlijk. Beide autobiografie delen herlezen. Vorige keer dat ik ze las was ik 18 ofzo. Dat is 30 jaar terug. Je leest zo'n boek toch anders dan. In de basis blijft het een blik van 1500 pagina's op het leven van een man die weinig anders gedaan heeft dan schrijven. En daar toch smakelijk over weet te vertellen.
February 26, 2020
The book is tremendous at the two basic requirements of an autobiography: readability and allowing the read to get to know the author.
That Asimov's self-regard was, shall we say, brobdingnagian or that he was relentlessly lecherous is not relevant to a review of the book.
That Asimov's self-regard was, shall we say, brobdingnagian or that he was relentlessly lecherous is not relevant to a review of the book.
July 5, 2020
In Joy Still Felt is the second volume of Asimov's autobiography, spanning from 1954 to 1978. Like the first volume, this is long (almost 800 pages), and absorbing.
August 21, 2009
The Good Doctor's autobiography of his life from the age of 34 thru 58, as told "in excruciating detail" according to The Good Doctor himself.
August 14, 2009
Interesting autobiography of master sci-fi writer Asimov. One of several and over 1000 pages
June 22, 2015
4/11/2014 -- I am reading this for the 3rd time.
May 29, 2010
Proof that you just can't put it down.
March 2, 2011
Asimov's autobiography is as much fun to reread as it was to read the first time. Unfortunately, reading it prompted me to spend way too much on Amazon getting other books of his.
January 31, 2011
What a fascinating life he lived
July 25, 2012
Good stories. Enjoyed it, despite minutia.
March 4, 2014
More about the life of writing's least humble workaholic.
Inevitably repetitive; yet, still endlessly fascinating.
Inevitably repetitive; yet, still endlessly fascinating.
February 9, 2016
If you liked "In Memory Yet Green," you'll...also like "In Joy Still Felt"!
April 27, 2017
Isaac sounds like bragging but there's no denying the fact he was a Master of Scifi and it'd be ridiculous to deny his success or his prolific output. It's hard for a writer not to read this without feeling envious. Yet his life still had ups and downs and sometimes individual works would be more successful than he thought they merited so it gives the rest of us hope. A fan of Isaac Asimov who only reads scifi will find this an interesting insight into the mind of a genius and his working methods.
May 8, 2019
I book I've re-read more times than I care to mention. An endlessly fascinating life, told in considerable detail, day-by-day, month-by-month. Isaac Asimov is still an inspirational figure in so many ways.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews