A Mind with Wings: The Story of Henry David Thoreau

Gerald and Loretta Hausmann
Trumpeter Books(2006)
ISBN 1590302281
Reviewed by April Sullivan for Reader Views (8/06)

“A Mind With Wings” is a book for young readers about the life of Henry David Thoreau.  It takes us from birth to death and includes all of the major events in between.  We learn how Henry grew up in a family of free thinkers.  We meet influential people in his life such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and John Brown.  We learn of his setbacks and achievements such as getting thrown in jail, but turning it around into a lecture series.  Using information from biographies on Henry David Thoreau as well as notes from his journal, the book gives readers an intimate peak into the life of this great American thinker.  Henry David Thoreau was a son, a brother, a pencil-maker, a thinker, a writer, a naturalist, and so much more.   

Any young reader asked to do a report or research paper on Thoreau should pick up this book.  The authors know their audience.  A timeline and glossary are included in the back for reference and the book is just long enough for the intended age group.

I was excited to read this book, because I have never been able to dive into “Walden”, yet I wanted to get a sense of this man.  After reading “A Mind With Wings”, I have a better understanding of where he was coming from and feel better prepared to try reading “Walden”.  However, it goes beyond that.  This book teaches lessons that all of us should practice.  It reminds me that I need to slow down, take more walks in the woods, and get to know nature better.  Henry also teaches us to follow our hearts and personal morals.  If something seems wrong to you, don’t do it.  Stand up for what you believe in.  Henry did all of these things, lived a full life, and died a peaceful man.

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