Why people recommend it
Also a Poet by Ada Calhoun is a compelling blend of memoir and literary biography that traces the author's complicated relationship with her father, art critic Peter Schjeldahl, alongside her obsessive quest to complete a biography of poet Frank O'Hara that her father had abandoned decades earlier. During an episode of The Book Review titled The Critics’ Picks: A Year in Reading in 2024, Gilbert Cruz and Alexandra Jacobs discussed the book, with Jacobs declaring it one of the memoirs she enjoyed most when she picked it up over the summer. Cruz acknowledged that he knew Jacobs wanted to talk about the title, prompting her to express her deep affection for the work. Jacobs explained why the book stood out to her as a memorable reading experience, praising its dual narrative structure and emotional honesty. The conversation between the critics highlighted how the book successfully bridges personal reconciliation with cultural history, making it a standout recommendation for readers interested in family dynamics and literary lore.
Who recommended it
- Alexandra Jacobs Recommended
Alexandra Jacobs — 1 mention
“and one of the books that I enjoyed most the summer when I picked it up was one that I know you want to talk about Alexandre which was also a poet oh I love also a poet”