Nietzsche exemplified

Thus Spoke Zarathustra is one of Nietzsche's most elegant and powerful works. It is written with a superb mastery of language and clarity. It is a testament to Nietzsche's insights into humanity, morality, and self-overcoming.

Thus Spoke Zarathustra is a fantastic book, written (in part) as a parable of the Bible. Style is complementary to such a goal, as Zarathustra "breaks the old tablets" (reference to the 10 Commandments) to 'create' the new. Thus Spoke Zarathustra is not a biography of Nietzsche, though many would claim that Zarathustra represents Nietzsche, I believe that Zarathustra represents Nietzsche's ideals, rather than Nietzsche himself. (further reading of Nietzsche indicates that he did not see himself as the Overman\Superman\Ubermenche but rather as his herald).

To fully appreciate the book, one must first accept that "man is the bridge between ape and Overman". Nietzsche's core views revolve around the concept that we (the human race) are a mere rung on the ladder of evolution. From ape, to man, to Overman. Thus Spoke Zarathustra is poetic, logical, insightful, and full of focussed creative effort. I highly recommend it to anyone, though be forewarned that Nietzsche's views can often be taken as anti-Semitism (played in with the role of Slave Morality and other issues), and his view of Christianity can be offensive at times. A fair amount of objectivity is required to fully appreciate Thus Spoke Zarathustra (or most philosophical works for that matter). My advice is to read it completely before you judge it. Nietzsche's misrepresentation by the Third Reich has done much to slaughter the notion of a 'master race' though please note that this IS a misrepresentation. Please hold back judgement on Nietzsche until you have read his works for yourself. The most dangerous opinions are those based without knowledge. It is also a key point to understand that the Nazi movement and WWII occurred after Nietzsche, based largely on distorted concepts.

I believe that Thus Spoke Zarathustra is an important, and valuable book. It contains a rich assortment of perspectives; a valuable source of critical thinking; and valuable life lessons to those willing to listen to a great thinker, with a great vision.

Other recommendations include Nietzche Contra Wagner, The Gay Science, and Twilight of the Idols (all by Nietzsche).

I particularly like Walter Kaufman's translations.

To anyone looking for a unique perspective on life and living, God and religion, friends and enemies, and more, Nietzsche (and Thus Spoke Zarathustra in particular) can be an extreme eye-opening read.

I do not believe that Zarathustra is a biography.