Sigmund Freud

Few historical figures have captured the public imagination as completely as Sigmund Freud.At a time when many ailments of the mind were treated with soothing baths or dangerous electroshock therapy, Freud initiated a novel practice: he simply listened to his patients.He called his method of treatment psychoanalysis, or 'the talking cure.' Though the validity of Freud's theories is still widely debated, there is little doubt that his contributions to the study of the mind were invaluable.In this compelling, even-handed biography, Catherine Reef explains Freud's groundbreaking theories and methods and shows how Freudian thought has affected our culture, changing the way we think about everything from art and literature to raising children.Beautiful archival family photographs round out this intimate look at a fascinating man.Endnotes, bibliography, index.

About the Author :
Catherine Reef is the author of more than 40 nonfiction books, including many highly acclaimed biographies for young people. She lives in College Park, Maryland. Visit her online at catherinereef.com.

Review :
"Reef makes it clear that although Freud's individual theories mattered greatly, they were less important than his leading us to new ways of looking at ourselves." Booklist, ALA Reef's piercing biography deftly interprets the life of the father of psychoanalysis and one of the most influential men of the 20th century. . . The text hits controversy head-on. . . Reef distills Freud's theories into comprehensible descriptions and combines a wealth if primary source material and idiosyncratic details to demonstrate his intellect, character and personality. Publishers Weekly, Starred Skillfully, Catherine Reef weaves the developing theories of the first psychoanalyst into a chronological report of his eventful life, setting both in the political and social currents of his era. . . .Reef depicts a complex, brillant, and humane man who--though he had evidently been a tyrannical child--became a devoted, well-loved colleague, husband, and parent. With admirable clarity, she presents both his seminal ideas and the objections, refinements, and alternatives to them that are still debated. Horn Book, Starred Quotations from others about him and black-and-white photographs provide an image of Freud not only as a great thinker, but also as a loving devoted father and husband. Reef's descriptions of his struggle to see his ideas accepted, his willingness to experiment with new theories, and his writing literally until he died clearly convey a picture of an indefatiguable spirit with a passion and zest for every facet of life. School Library Journal Effective use of personal details that reveal Freud's intellect, emotions, and personality, plus photos of his family, friends, and professional life, make this book rich and visually appealing. VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates) null Children's Books: 100 Titles NYPL