“A model of a kind of intelligent writing that should be in greater supply. Bronner manages judiciously to combine an appreciation for the strengths of Camus and nonrancorous criticism of his weaknesses. . . . As a personal and opinionated book, it invites the reader into an engaging and informative dialogue."

American Political Science Review

“This concise, lively, and remarkably evenhanded treatment of the life and work of Albert Camus weaves together biography, philosophical analysis, and political commentary."

Kristana Arp | Science & Society

“[Bronner] succeeds in explaining Camus’ unique sense of personal responsibility and his lucidity, tolerance, and honesty."

Library Journal

"This study retraces the life and career of Albert Camus while elucidating the tumultuous period in which he lived. It features several original readings of major literary and philosophical texts, an incisive analysis of the Camus-Sartre controversy, and a thoughtful re-examination of Camus’s role in the Algerian conflict. It also provides a relevant and respectful look into Camus’s personal life. . . . Bronner portrays Camus with depth, subtlety, and, above all, balance. . . . A lucid and provocative re-thinking of who Camus was, what he meant for the past, and what he might mean for the future."

Steven Hartlaub | SubStance

"A short, well-informed, clear and very balanced overview of the life and work of one of the most important European intellectuals of the mid-twentieth century. . . .The book will serve especially well those wanting an overall intellectual portrait of the man. Thus, it would be ideal complementary reading for students of existentialism and European intellectual history."

David Weberman | Review of Politics