Book details
Walden Then & Now: An Alphabetical Tour of Henry Thoreau's Pond
Published in
2010
Description
"I hear a song sparrow singing from the bushes on the shore."--Henry David Thoreau, WaldenHenry David Thoreau was an author and naturalist whose book WALDEN still inspires readers today. In it Thoreau documented his experience living in a cabin on Walden Pond, reflecting on the beauty of nature and Mother Earth. Much of his writing, including WALDEN, propelled the environmental movement that exists today.Over one hundred and fifty years later, Michael McCurdy pays tribute to this influential figure and the historic place that inspired Thoreau during his lifetime. In WALDEN THEN & NOW, readers take an alphabetical journey around Walden Pond. McCurdy explores Thoreau's simple life in his cabin surrounded by nature, and highlights what has changed and what has stayed the same from Thoreau's time to our own. Readers discover the animals, plants, seasons, and thoughts that Thoreau recorded during his life on the pond as they gain an appreciation for nature and environmentalism.McCurdy's beautiful wood engravings illustrate this celebration of the joy, solitude, and drama of the natural life of Walden Pond-then and now.
Age
7-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
32 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: The book provides a unique alphabetical journey around Walden Pond, offering readers historical context and insight into the life and times of Henry David Thoreau, one of America's most influential philosophers and naturalists.
- Artistic Illustrations: Michael McCurdy, an acclaimed illustrator, enhances the text with his beautiful woodcut illustrations, which bring the scenes and subjects of Thoreau's Walden to life, offering a visual feast that complements the literary exploration.
- Environmental Appreciation: By comparing the past and present states of Walden Pond, the book encourages readers to reflect on environmental issues and the importance of conservation, echoing Thoreau's own advocacy for nature and simple living.
- Educational Value: Ideal for both adults and children, 'Walden Then & Now' serves as an educational tool that can inspire discussions about literature, history, environmental studies, and the philosophy of transcendentalism, making it a valuable resource for classrooms and personal libraries alike.