Familiar Studies of Men and Books is a collection of essays by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson. The essays reflect Stevenson's opinions and observations on various aspects of literature and the human condition. They showcase his wit, wisdom, and style and demonstrate why he was one of the most popular writers of his time. In the essays, Stevenson discusses authors and works he admired, reflects on his own writing process, and offers insights into the nature of literary criticism and the role of books in society. The book provides a glimpse into the mind of one of the great writers of the 19th century and offers timeless observations that still resonate today.
Robert Louis Stevenson (13 November 1850 - 3 December 1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, he was a sickly child, but he grew up to become one of the most famous and widely-read authors of his time. He is best known for his adventure novels, such as "Treasure Island" (1883) and "Kidnapped" (1886), as well as his novel "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" (1886), a chilling tale of a man who transforms into a monster. In addition to his writing, Stevenson was an avid traveler, visiting the United States, Europe, and the Pacific islands. He eventually settled in Samoa, where he died of a stroke at the age of 44. Despite his short life, he left behind a lasting legacy, and his works continue to be popular and widely read today.