“Written over the years and telling Balthus some of what Rilke learned from Rodin, the letters restate why a life in the arts matters–and why all artists must have tenacity, courage, and belief in themselves.”

– Lilly Wei, Art in America

In “Letters to a Young Painter, Rilke sends Balthus birthday wishes, and inquiries about his school exams and his brothers. These are accounts of quiet domesticity rather than grandiose pronouncements, and, while they might not contradict Rilke’s earlier pronouncements, they at least represent a softening.”

– Caoimhe Morgan-Feir, Canadian Art

"If you need some words of wisdom… This later collection deserves attention... Rilke’s encouragement to the young artist is inspiring and palpable, as is his care.”

– Eileen Kinsella, Artnet News

“...these letters paint a picture of the venerable poet as he faced his mortality, looked back on his life, and continued to embrace his openness toward other creative individuals."

– Editors, The Paris Review

“The books in the series seem designed to slip into your back pocket - slim, spartan, and compact, sporting uniform covers consisting solely of typeface in black or white, with a matching horizontal bar across the top, against a solid color.”

– Thomas Micchelli, Hyperallergic