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November 2020 Vol. 58 No. 3

In this fascinating work, Kaag (Univ. of Massachusetts, Lowell) takes the reader on a sometimes tragic and always entertaining but most especially informative journey into the sometimes tortured soul and mind of William James. While every psychology major will recognize this iconic name, probably few are aware of the profound impact his constant struggles with depression, thoughts of suicide, and almost morbid preoccupation with self had on the ideas and theories he would develop. Kaag, a prolific interpreter of American thought (Thinking through the Imagination, CH, Apr'15, 52-4131), enables readers to see why James addressed the topics he did, creating a body of work that many consider the foundation of American psychology. This text humanizes the iconic figure and provides much-needed context for his works. More importantly, though, Kaag provides a framework through which individuals asking the same soul-searching questions James asked may find solace, despite the imperfection of the answers they may formulate. For those who want to know the historical foundations of James's ideas, and for any therapist or clinician looking for a new and refreshing approach to helping clients in existential crisis, this work will become an important resource.

--R. E. Osborne, Texas State University

Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower- and upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students and professionals. General readers.