John Kelman

John Kelman was a Scottish Presbyterian minister, lecturer, and writer whose books connected literature, travel, biblical interpretation, and Christian ethics. Among Famous Books presents extended studies of influential works rather than a conventional history of literature. Its chapters consider such texts as The Iliad, The Divine Comedy, Don Quixote, Faust, and works by Shakespeare, reading them for their moral imagination and treatment of enduring human questions. Kelman served in Edinburgh churches and became known for public lectures as well as published sermons and literary criticism. His other titles included The Faith of Robert Louis Stevenson, The Road, The Holy Land, and studies of biblical places and figures. The second edition of Among Famous Books was issued by Hodder and Stoughton, reflecting the book’s use in religious and educational reading circles. Kelman’s method joins close attention to story with the concerns of a preacher addressing a general audience. Among Famous Books therefore represents the literary-critical side of a broader pastoral and cultural career.