Walden: 150th Anniversary Edition of the American Classic

Science News, July 31, 2004

WALDEN: 150th Anniversary Edition of the American Classic HENRY DAVID THOREAU

When this book was first published 150 years ago, on Aug. 9, 1854, it took nearly 5 years for it to sell through its first printing. AS is the case for many great authors, Thoreau enjoyed his greatest success posthumously. In fact, Walden, or, a Life in the Woods, as the book was originally known, has not been out of print since the author's death in 1862. Thoreau's experience living off the land around Walden Pond in Massachusetts has global appeal. The book has been translated into every modern language. This volume incorporates nearly 100 photographs of the flora and fauna in, on, and around Walden Pond as it exists today, as well as a few historical photos from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Biologist E.O. Wilson contributes an introduction discussing the continuing relevance of Thoreau's living alone in the wild for 2 years. The book's price reflects what Thoreau paid to build his cabin on Walden Pond 150 years ago. HM, 2004, 275 p., color photos, hardcover, $28.12.