When I first came across this book in the bookstore I hesitated, but I am very glad I bought it. This is an excellent introduction to Nietzsche in general, but also as a study of genius. Pletsch is not a Nietzsche theorist who attempts to explain all of Nietzsche through on idea such as orphan, scorned lover, homosexual, etc. Pletsch looks at all of the occurrences of the young Nietzsche's life, many source documents, Nietzsche's own words, his friends, teachers and others, gives them a balanced treatment, and presents a young man who desired genius for genius sake. In the work we see the development of the idea of genius and its working out in relationships to Wagner, professors, friends and others, his desire for autonomy, and its attainment. Many early works are discussed. Many of Nietzsche's lectures, letters and notes, some of which were not translated until more recently, are discussed in detail. Nietzsche's later and major works are not discussed. It would be wonderful to see Pletsch write a follow up volume on Nietzsche. ( )