Waiting on Wednesday: Being Henry David by Cal Armistead

November 21, 2012 / 11 Comments / Book Memes, Waiting on Wednesday

 

“Waiting On Wednesday” is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that spotlights upcoming releases that book bloggers are eagerly anticipating.

This week’s WoW pick is inspired by classic American literature:

Being Henry David
by Cal Armistead

Publisher: Albert Whitman Teen
Expected publication: March 1, 2013
From Goodreads:
Seventeen-year-old “Hank” has found himself at Penn Station in New York City with no memory of anything –who he is, where he came from, why he’s running away. His only possession is a worn copy of Walden, by Henry David Thoreau. And so he becomes Henry David-or “Hank” and takes first to the streets, and then to the only destination he can think of–Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. Cal Armistead’s remarkable debut novel is about a teen in search of himself. Hank begins to piece together recollections from his past. The only way Hank can discover his present is to face up to the realities of his grievous memories. He must come to terms with the tragedy of his past, to stop running, and to find his way home.

I have no idea where I found out about this book – probably from another book blogger. Regardless, this book has one of the best and most unique concepts I’ve heard about. I know the idea of a physical journey paralleling an emotional journey might be done, but throwing in Walden totally heightens this concept. I’ve loved Thoreau’s writing since high school – I think his search for identity, peace, and the meaning of life speaks to teens everywhere. Also, I love New York travelogues, and I’ve visited Walden Pond (on one of the coldest New Year’s Eves ever) and seen the cabin that Thoreau built and lived in. Thoreau meant a lot to me in in my teen years, and I think a novel “inspired by” him might be just the ticket for the next “Looking for Alaska.” Also, male protagonist! You don’t see that on my bookshelf too often, and it’s pretty refreshing.
Really excited for this one. That cover is perfect.
What are you waiting for this week? Leave me a comment and I’ll come by!Looking for a great New Adult novel? Check out my Birthday Month Spotlight giveaway of all four books in Diana Peterfreund’s SECRET SOCIETY GIRL series!


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11 responses to “Waiting on Wednesday: Being Henry David by Cal Armistead

  1. So, this is the first I've heard of this one, but damn does it sound excellent. Truly. Adding it to my tbr now. Thanks for the post and thanks for taking the time to stop by my blog earlier 🙂

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