"Perceptive readings of Neruda's poems are contextualized by an absorbing historical, cultural, and political chronology." -- Kirkus Reviews

"The comprehensive result examines Neruda's beloved poetry, political commitment, and roiling personal history to show how his art reflected his life and also stood on its own." -- Library Journal

"Efficient and moving... Eisner doesn't let the enchantment of the verse soften his disapproval of the poet's serial adultery or mistreatment of women, and questions Neruda's self-appointed "people's poet" status. Nevertheless, the thematic arc of Neruda's poetic vocation is invitingly presented. Meanwhile [Eisner's] descriptions are poetry themselves..." -- Publishers Weekly

"...brings alive Latin America's greatest poet...Empathetic but unflinching when occasion calls for criticism, Eisner weaves his subject's stanzas that resonate with the poet's personal stories. A real treat is the who's who of intellectual luminaries who make cameos throughout...A definitive biography and instant classic." -- Library Journal (starred review)

"Eisner succeeds in sharing the story of the 'People's Poet' and his life's many callings in this new standard-bearer among Neruda biographies." -- Booklist