When Nietzsche Wept

Irvin D Yalom

The setting is Vienna, 1882, and Yalon blends fact and fiction to totally captivate and educate the reader about the roots of psychoanalysis, about one of the world’s greatest philosophers, and the powers of obsession and redemption.

The book is a real page-turner and the characters are fascinating. I would never have imagined what the young Sigmund Freud might have been like, how his career took root, what his friendships were like and more.

This is a book that is hard to put down, a classic story that one can’t get enough of. Additionally, it is thought provoking, psychological, and philosophical.

First published more than 15 years ago, and a national bestseller, I am amazed I had never heard of it before. I hope many of you will find it nearly as enjoyable as I did.

Review by Len Oppenheim