This book is extensively researched, with 100 pages of notes plus a bibliography. However, this is not a biography but more of an analysis of Franco's work and times. I wished it had talked more about her life and those of the people around her, though I realize her biography is scant. It is a bit confusing if her main volume of poetry is autobiographical or not. In addition, the appendices included are in Italian only. I would recommend this for scholars or those already familiar with her work. I feel like I should have read her works first, then this book.