This text is designed to help readers to approach the difficult writings of James Joyce. Its summary and interpretation of the books in the Joyce canon emphasises allusions, relationships, and parallels in world literature and utilises Tindall's knowledge of psychology.

First published in 1959, William York Tindall's Reader's Guide is still considered to be the best introduction to the complex writings of James Joyce. 'Much of this detailed (often page-by-page) interpretation of Joyce's works reads like a free but academic outline offered for discussion and comment, and this is its strength... Tindall's summary and interpretation of the books in the Joyce canon emphasizes allusions, relationships, and parallels in world literature and utilizes his extensive knowledge of psychology.' - Herbert Cahoon, Library Journal.