This isn't a novel with a traditional plot. Instead, it's a one-sided conversation spanning decades. From 1755 until his death, Denis Diderot, one of the minds behind the monumental Encyclopédie, wrote hundreds of letters to Sophie Volland, an intelligent woman he loved deeply. The book collects these surviving letters. There's no single story arc, but a life unfolding in real time. We see Diderot's excitement about editing the Encyclopédie, his fear of censorship, his travels, and his sharp observations of Parisian society. We also get his private struggles: his complex feelings for Sophie, his thoughts on his own marriage, and his evolving philosophy on everything from art to mortality. It's a biography written in the moment, without the benefit of hindsight.

Why You Should Read It

You should read this to meet the man, not the monument. History books give us Diderot the philosopher. These letters give us Diderot the friend, the lover, the worrier. His voice is astonishingly modern. He's witty and sarcastic about high society. He's emotionally raw when describing his connection to Sophie. He wrestles with big ideas in plain, passionate language. My favorite parts are his vivid descriptions—whether of a painting by Greuze or a walk in the country—that make you feel like you're right there with him. This collection strips away 250 years and reveals a person you'd want to have coffee with. It makes the Enlightenment feel alive, messy, and deeply human.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who loves peeking behind the curtain of history. If you enjoy biographies, personal essays, or collections of letters (like those of Vincent van Gogh), you'll be captivated. It's also a great pick for readers who think philosophy is too dense, because here it's served with humor, gossip, and heartache. You don't need to be a scholar of the 18th century; you just need to be curious about people. Be prepared for a slow, reflective read—it's best enjoyed in small doses, like having a long chat with a fascinating friend over many years.