I chose this book from the local library in one of my English major moments — it’s a biography of John Milton (best known for his epic poem, Paradise Lost). On one hand, Milton has been called the greatest Christian poet, and on the other, because of his unorthodox view of the trinity, some say he cannot be called Christian at all. The author, Joe Moshenska categorizes himself as a Jewish atheist, but he does an excellent job of navigating and describing the religious history of the time, as well as the personal beliefs of Milton.
This is not a traditional biography. Instead, it is part literary criticism, part personal memoir and travelogue, and even historical fiction, as the author often imagines who Milton might have met and what conversations he might have had with well known figures of his time. Instead of a straight forward, linear account of Milton’s life, Mr. Moshenska uses relatively short vignettes describing his own travels — you might say pilgrimages– to various places Milton lived or visited during his life. Each chapter illuminates a certain phase of Milton’s life, seeking to capture the general sense of that time and place rather than a listing of facts, dates and events.
This is not an easy read, but it is also not dry or overly academic. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of this great poet and also learn something about the times and places he inhabited.
VERDICT: 4 STARS. A good read for those interested in English literature and English history.

For more of my English major moments see:
Another of Joan’s English Major Moments
More Rest In Nature + English Major Moment!
An English Major Moment from Joan
For more about John Milton see: