Praise for James Fenimore Cooper: The Early Years:
"Franklin creatively and convincingly weaves episodes from Cooper's fiction into the story of his life, demonstrating, in many instances, where the novelist's inspiration came from. This is a richly detailed treatment, encompassing political as well as literary affairs, and a short review cannot do it justice. Anyone interested in examining James Fenimore Cooper's republican credentials will find this book an immensely satisfying read."—Andrew Burstein, The Journal of American History

Praise for James Fenimore Cooper: The Early Years:
“[A] leisurely and deeply researched canvassing of the first half of Cooper's life…”—Christopher Benfey, The New Republic

“Franklin’s book is in a class by itself. It will be the definitive biography and foremost study of Cooper’s fiction and nonfiction for the foreseeable future.”— Allan Axelrad, California State University, Fullerton

“Cooper’s life and work are in need of a major reappraisal. Wayne Franklin’s biography will undoubtedly be the essential study of Cooper’s life.”— Sandra Gustafson, University of Notre Dame

“The accomplishment of a scholarly lifetime, Wayne Franklin’s splendid biography of James Fenimore Cooper at long last does full justice to the life and career of the nation’s first major novelist, whose international influence endures to this day.”—Lawrence Buell, Harvard University

"For a writer of Cooper’s undeniable status in our letters, it’s remarkable that he hasn’t until now had a full-scale biography. This beautifully written book is a great scholarly achievement.  Cooper has finally gotten his definitive biography.”— H. Daniel Peck, Vassar College

“This is a masterful biography that well deserves to be called definitive. It is unimaginable that any life of Cooper will surpass this fascinating book.”—Kirkus (starred review)

A remarkable scholarly achievement, this is the most thorough, balanced, complete Cooper biography available.”—Choice