"In this readable and informative volume, Whittaker provides an excellent guide to the art and poetry of William Blake. Whittaker's sustained attention to Blake's artistic works and methods is helpfully supported by 108 illustrations. Whittaker successfully makes Blake's work, which is often thought of as challenging and idiosyncratic, understandable and relatable even as he highlights the poet's originality. Whittaker provides apt historical contexts that illuminate Blake's life and works. Through these contexts, Whittaker also adroitly introduces readers to important critical conversations regarding Blake. Furthermore, Whittaker's focus throughout on Blake's religious and political radicalism helps structure the discussion of his life and works. Perhaps most helpful for those unfamiliar with Blake will be Whittaker's careful, clear tracing of the development of Blake's personal mythological system, which can be daunting even to those familiar with Blake. The final chapter provides a helpful overview of Blake's legacy into the twenty-first century.

This book is not only an excellent aid for those new to Blake but also an engaging reintroduction for those already acquainted with his poetry and art. Recommended.".