summer reading
for rising juniors in
on-level American Literature
about the novel Being Henry David
A boy wakes up in Penn Station, remembering nothing. He guesses that he's
about 17, he has a head injury, and he is carrying only 10 dollars. Near at hand
is a copy of Walden [by American philosopher Henry David Thoreau, written in
1854], so for want of anything better he calls himself Henry David (Hank). He
heads to Concord, Massachusetts, to find, he hopes, some clues at Walden
Pond. As his memories slowly return, he remembers who he was; as he copes
with the memories, he discovers who he is and can be. The quiet mystery of
Hank's past is the central plot point, but the focus is more on the relationships
he builds and his efforts to be a good person and make up for past misdeedswhatever they may have been. Thematic elements from Thoreau are subtly
deployed, planting the suggestion that teens pick up Walden. Introspective high
schoolers will appreciate this enigmatic coming-of-age story.
- Brandy Danner, Wilmington Memorial Library, School Library Journal
over the summer:

Read the book Being Henry David by Cal Armistead
Just enjoy the book – it is a thriller and a page-turner!

For background information on Henry David Thoreau,
watch School of Life’s background video at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJL9S0J8-4k
in August, assessments for the book will start on
Monday August 8 and will include the following:

Examine how the book reflects the key beliefs of Henry David Thoreau;
trace moments in the book where the protagonist draws strength from
Thoreau’s beliefs. What could people in our society today gain from
following some of what Thoreau recommends for a happy life?

Describe an object that would be crucial to you figuring out who you are –
your experiences, values, personality, relationships, identity, etc. (in the
same way Hank uses Walden to rebuild his life)