What a treat - to be able to look into the mind of the genius Ray Bradbury. I've always been a fan of his stories and it's fascinating to see his thought processes.

"Remembrance: Selected Correspondence of Ray Bradbury," offers a captivating glimpse into the life and mind of the legendary author, Ray Bradbury. This collection of letters is a treasure trove for any admirer of Bradbury's work, providing a profound and intimate perspective on the man behind the literary genius.

What makes this compilation truly exceptional is Eller's skillful curation and the insightful context he provides before each letter. His concise yet illuminating introductions to the correspondences enrich the reader's understanding of the background, making the letters themselves all the more poignant.

Bradbury's evolution as a writer is well-documented through his dozens of novels, but through this collection of letters, readers witness his personal growth from mentee to mentor, and from a budding writer asking for favors to a celebrated author who became the recipient of such requests. The progression in Bradbury's relationships is evident in the changing sign-offs, from the formal "Best, Ray" to the affectionate "Yours, Ray," and finally, "Love, Ray." This evolution mirrors the transformation in his professional and personal life, making the letters all the more compelling.

One of the most enlightening correspondences in the book is Bradbury's decades-long exchange with his agent, Don Congdon. Their letters offer a candid and illuminating look into the highs and lows of Bradbury's career. The closeness of their relationship is palpable, as they transition from business associates to dear friends. The most heartwarming letters in the collection are those to Bradbury's friends and family. They reveal the facets of Bradbury that were a loving son, father, uncle, and nephew. His reflections on personal matters make him appear more relatable, like any other person. I was especially moved by his reflection on his mother's death: “I will send a ten year old boy to the graveyard to put flowers on her grave. I wll return a 46 year old man, bewildered at the fact of buried love dug up and for a moment exhibited in the cold December light.”

I was suprised by Bradbury's willingness to express his political opinions in the era of McCarthyism. His impassioned words, such as "And let us all settle down to the job of moving ahead together…each lonely individual in our country firmly held in mind," elevate him from being merely a writing hero to a personal hero for living a fulfilling life.

As a delightful aside, as a Columbia student, the inclusion of a letter from the President of Columbia University (PrezBo!) awarding Bradbury the Pulitzer Prize Special Citation, technically makes me only two degrees of separation from Bradbary. What a slay!

"Remembrance: Selected Correspondence of Ray Bradbury" is an exquisite gem that should find a cherished place in the collection of any devoted Bradbury fan. Jonathan R. Eller's meticulous compilation and insightful context provide a comprehensive view of Bradbury's life, from his professional triumphs and struggles to his personal joys and sorrows. This book offers a poignant journey through the life and times of a literary legend, making it a truly perfect read for the hardcore Bradbury fan.

A very huge thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the eARC. All thoughts were my own.