John Rodden has taught at the University of Virginia and the University of Texas at Austin. His books include The Cambridge Companion to George Orwell, The Cambridge Introduction to George Orwell, and The Politics of Literary Reputation: The Making and Claiming of St. George Orwell. He lives in Austin, Texas.
The range and depth of Rodden's knowledge and understanding of post-World War II literature and worldwide responses to Orwell are unparalleled. . . . Becoming George Orwell makes for an engrossing and illuminating read. ---Norman Bissell, Orwell Society As a self-described 'recovering utopian' in tune with his subject's utopian skepticism, Rodden's outlook on democratic socialism will resonate with our current political environment. . . . Anyone with an interest in Orwell will appreciate Rodden's insights and reflections. ---Thomas Karel, Library Journal [Becoming George Orwell] is a grab-bag of Orwelliana. . . . The chapters can stand on their own or, taken together, form an idiosyncratic biography of a consequential life. To read them is to sit in the presence of a veteran scholar at the peak of his powers ---John J. Miller, National Review Rodden's book keeps alive the spirit of the man and his imagination. ---Shelley Walia, The Hindu John Rodden, arguably the world's leading scholar on George Orwell . . . claims that Orwell 'is the most important writer since Shakespeare and the most influential writer who ever lived'. . . . It's a big claim, but he provides enough evidence to keep literature departments arguing for years. ---Dennis Glover, Sydney Morning Herald A terrific book. An absolute must for fans of George Orwell. ---David Marx, David Marx Book Reviews