A book written by a man who has become very well aquainted with the subject matter. He allows the facts to present the subject with little fanfare or extra fluff. The bad is presented along with the good, and with praise when praise is warranted, and with no apologies when other authors have made excuses. All within the context of the times.

This book is excellent for gaining a cursory understanding of Erasmus, some of his works ,and various elements that helped him develop his ideas. Tracy has done a good job of trying to walk the middle ground and has done an admirable job of laying the details down without trying to interpret them too much. An excellent starting point for those who wish to study Erasmus.