A Picture’s Worth is testimony to Friedman’s eye for detail, for finding music in the minutiae, and to his precise use of language; pared down, it is a distillation that opens wonderful vistas for the reader. ‘Shakespearean’ figures come to life off the page, sometimes merging into recognisable people you could meet today. At other times Friedman casts his enquiring eye over paintings of the Great Masters and unerringly finds something fresh and vital to bring to our attention.

All in all, this is a marvellous collection, linking the past to the present. Friedman’s voice is in fine form, turning language into brush strokes – and brush strokes into a gallery that’s well worth the visit. – Simon French, author of The Deadwing Generation