A hugely enjoyable biography. Modest in length, and good reading, it is nevertheless seriously informative and satisfying. From Calvin's teaching to his manner of laughing; his trials to his accomplishments; his youth to his last years, all is here, and we are, as it were, close observers. Here also is fresh material for Calvin's defence in the matter of the burning of Servetus. (Why are powerful facts so often ignored by historians?) Very strongly recommended.

LRBS assigned reading for November 2025.