To be honest, to get the most out of this book, the reader probably needs some knowledge of the American Civil War. It would also help to know a bit about early American philosophy and psychology. However, if the reader remains patient, Menand eventually fills in the missing details.

Overall, the Metaphysical Club is a very well written and complex history of a fascinating group of thinkers.

An interesting topic, though you need to be a history or philosophy buff to get the most out of this book.

I like the subject but found both the book and reader boring!!