Johannes Kepler, born in 1571 in south Germany, was one of the world’s greatest mathematicians and astronomers. The author of this book uses this history as a background to his novel, writing a work of historical fiction that is rooted in poverty, squalor and the tyrannical power of emperors.
eview: Narrative art at a positively symphonic level. * Guardian *
One knows one is in the presence of a writer extraordinary. Wearing his vast research lightly, Mr Banville not only summons Kepler and his company of vivid souls but leads us into the small dark rooms. * Sunday Telegraph *
This very distinguished novel . . . is done with very considerable skill; it suggests that this is what such a life must indeed have been like and the result is a wonderfully human figure, rife with feelings, principles, regrets and courage. * Sunday Times *
An outstandingly good novel . . . a novel that dramatizes and celebrates intellectual passion. Which makes it a very rare novel indeed. * Irish Press *
Winner of Guardian Fiction Prize 1981.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 208
Imprint: Picador
Publication date: 06/08/2010
Series: Revolutions Trilogy
