"Kipling biography recommendation?" Topic

I've just been reading 'Plain Tales from the Hills' and it's piqued my interest in Kipling, who lived not far from where I live in the UK.

Is there a general opinion as to what the best biography of him is? If not, your opinion would be welcome!

Bateman's is always a lovely place to visit. Have you tried the National Trust shop there?

Lycett's book is 800 pages, so not sure I'd recommend that; Kipling Sahib by Charles Allen is a decent read but only covers his time in India. I haven't read the Lycett or Jad Adams biographies.

Thanks @22ndfoot, I searched for Lycett's biog and found this informative page on the various books and authors

link

I love Batemans :) Haven't been for years – must go again.

Well, I may start with Kipling Sahib – my mother grew up in India and reading Plain Tales has brought back memories of many stories she told.

Thanks for your help :)

Do read Something of Myself--Kipling on Kipling.

Alistair, you are very welcome. We love Bateman's and used to take a run out there regularly when we still lived in England. It is a beautiful spot and so much more manageable than far grander stately homes. Like Chartwell, one can – with a much less dramatic bout of wishful thinking – actually imagine living there.

All the best,

Jon

Ah, I do love both of those spots, Jon – and have just picked up Kipling Sahib and am enjoying it very much – thanks :)