The Trouble with Henry: A Tale of Walden Pond

By Deborah O'Neal and Angela Westengard

Stunning illustrations distinguish this lively fictional portrait of Henry David Thoreau, a man whose simple yet extraordinary vision made history - and reminded us that "heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads." Everyone in the bustling town of Concord loves buying grand new things and stylish clothes. Everyone, that is, except Henry David Thoreau. He would rather sit on a pumpkin than a velvet couch. He likes his old breeches patched and his shirts worn and soft. Henry even prefers fresh air and the song of whippoorwills to the hazy breath of smokestacks and the thunder of wagons. But when Henry builds himself a cabin - "not one inch bigger than I need" - near Walden Pond and speaks out against a ghastly plan to destroy his beloved Walden Woods, the town brands him a trouble-some rooster. Can Henry prove once and for all that nature is worth more than sooty factories and fancy parasols? An afterword provides historical details and context.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0763618284
• ISBN13: 9780763618285
• Release Date: August 2005
• Publisher: Candlewick
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10.9" x 0.4" x 9.8"
• Age Range: 5 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

THE TROUBLE WITH HENRY

"The Trouble with Henry" provides children with an accessible classic story expressing the trials and tribulations of individuality and fostering sensitivity to the environment.

Lively and Thought-provoking

What a refreshing story! My daughter and I loved it. From the beginning to the end, children (and adults alike) will be caught up in the wonderful imagery created and clever "sounding" words chosen by its author. By celebrating the spirit of the individual and appreciating the simplicity and beauty of nature, children are introduced to Thoreau in a delightful and marvelously illustrated way. The Trouble with Henry is bound to be a favorite, especially among younger readers.

Wonderful book

Not only are the illustrations beautiful, the story is also beautiful. A gentle lesson on loving and respecting nature, and the power of what one person can do. A wonderful, relaxing read for both adults and children.

A Delightful Read!

As the mother of an inquisitive small child, I love books based in history (fiction or nonfiction) that have a clear moral lesson. The Trouble With Henry provides both, in an interesting and captivating story with purpose. My daughter was enthralled-she wants to read it over & over. Delightful-I highly recommend it!

Imaginative, not "contrived"--this is children's fiction at its best

Not only does this book get repeat requests from the children in my family, it is a pleasure to the adult eye and ear: the detailed illustrations are captivating, and the elegant, original language is a delight to read aloud. The story--yes, it's a story, not a Thoreau biography for the kiddies--presents themes of industrialization and environmental stewardship in a way that engages rather than lectures. In sum, a lovely book that is sure to be a favorite with parents and other adult readers, as well as the picture-book set.