A biography that seeks to understand Thoreau through the influence the events of the mid-1800's, location and education. The book was quite informative and included many direct quotes from Thoreau's journals. Thoreau's terminology was well explained.
My only complaint was the intrusion of the author into the biography through use of jargon (Harlequin & Elysian Fields in the same sentence!); unsupported conclusions ("actually a universal law"; "uniquely American") & wanderings (8 pages on sea serpents!) ( )

The National Park Service celebrated its centennial in 2016 and I can't help but wonder what Henry David Thoreau would have thought about the parks. Who else but Thoreau would fully appreciate them? Or would he be disappointed that there are only fifty-nine parks in America. Because, after all, he was a naturalist. To see so many buildings and so few trees in some towns might have been discouraging. There's something so healing about nature. If you've ever been camping or just spent the afternoon outdoors, there's something about being out of doors that sets the mind at peace. I believe nobody felt that more than Thoreau.

Kevin Dann, who is also a naturalist, takes readers on a journey to find Henry David Thoreau. Thoreau wrote essays and poetry, he was a naturalist and transcendentalist, he was an abolitionist and at times practiced civil disobedience. He encouraged people to be observant and ask questions about the natural world. He had a longtime friendship with Ralph Waldo Emmerson and Bronson Alcott (Louisa May Alcott's father).

He also had more of an unconventional side as well. He believed in fairies. He was genuinely enthusiastic about life--even things most might consider mundane. He had a knack for finding unusual and rare plants because he asked tons of questions and mostly because he believed he could find them.

“In the long run, we find what we expect; we shall be fortunate then, if we expect great things.”

But everything I've written so far is a mere glimpse into Henry David Thoreau's life. This year marks two hundred years since his birth. So it seems appropriate that Kevin Dann has written a well-researched biography to help shed light on the complex author of Walden. He uses entries from his journals to help open doors into Thoreau's and the ever-changing world in which we live. He was a unique character whose philosophies help shape some of today's ideals and leaders. I think we would all do well to emulate even a small bit of his philosophy as well.
Read more at http://www.toreadornottoread.net/2017/01/review-expect-great-things.html#iplYoXs... ( )