Customer Reviews:
 Great introduction May 28, 2007
This book is thought provoking, explains Sartre's ideas simply and without pretense, but remains light and easy to read. (A difficult task to say the least.)
The other reviewers have stated how there maybe is not enough depth, but in my opinion, it is the way in which the ideas have been clearly presented without laborious analysis that is this books forte.
A great introduction to Sartre that will make you want to find out more.
 A capable introduction August 28, 2001
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
I completely agree with the other reviewer. This is a very readable introduction to the life and work of Sartre, but I found it a little too basic at times. I thought that there was too much description of Sartre's life, and not enough description of his ideas.Nevertheless, it's one of the best introductions around for someone who knows nothing about Sartre or existentialism.
 Concise guide to the basic tenets of Sartre's philosophy March 1, 2001
3 out of 4 found this review helpful
As part of the 'introducing' series, this is effective. It provides a concise yet also detailed explanation of the basic themes of Sartre's life, opinions, philosophy and works. The biographical details were presented in an interesting way, and the synopses of each work were helpful, and were well tied in to the rest of the material. The layout of the book itself is magazine-like rather than giving block text, which makes it easy to dip into for snippets, although this made it difficult to read right through. The illustrations can feel a little patronising (especially if you are reading this as a way in to Sartre's own writing)- someone has obviously decided that such complex ideas need to be provided in a 'fun' or 'easy' way, so that we don't get too bored. This guide only works as a first encounter with the man himself, and I found it rather stimulated interest than answered deep and complex questions about the nature of his philosophy. In brief, it is, as it promises, an introduction to Sartre, but is unlikely to give much insight to those who have already read some of Sartre's work.
A good introduction but basic at times. August 28, 2000
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
The book offers a good introduction to complete Sartre novices, with facts about the man himself, his lifestyle, beliefs, thoughts, publishing career etc. However I did find the format a bit basic at times, perhaps focusing too much on Sartre himself rather than his works and philosophy. Also I often found the pictures seemed to detract from the written information. However the book does introduce you to Sartre himself and provides some good foundations for further reading.
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