Being Henry David
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Book Brief
312
Novel • Fiction
•
Realistic Fiction•
Modern Classic FictionConcord, Massachusetts • Contemporary
•
Forgiveness•
Loneliness2013
Albert Whitman Teen
YA
12-18 years
780L
Super Short Summary
In Cal Armistead’s 2013 novel Being Henry David, Danny Henderson wakes up with amnesia in New York City’s Penn Station, possessing only a copy of Henry David Thoreau’s Walden. Adopting the name Henry David, he travels to Concord, Massachusetts, in search of his identity, making new friends and confronting his troubled past. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, the influence of literature, and the impact of trauma. The novel references violence, child abuse, drug use, and death by suicide.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
3,154 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Being Henry David by Cal Armistead has captivated readers with its engaging exploration of identity and self-discovery. Praises focus on the compelling narrative and well-developed characters. However, some readers found the plot predictably formulaic. Despite this, its insightful themes resonate well with young adults.
Who Should Read Being Henry David?
Potential readers who would enjoy Being Henry David by Cal Armistead are teens who appreciate introspective coming-of-age stories. Fans of The Catcher in the Rye and Paper Towns would find this novel's themes of identity and self-discovery engaging. Ideal for those who enjoy complex characters and literary connections.
3,154 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A researcher and interpreter of Henry David Thoreau who becomes a mentor to Danny in Concord, Massachusetts, providing guidance and support.
Siblings who are unhoused in New York City and quickly befriend Danny, sharing their living space and forging a strong connection with him.
A young woman in Concord who shares a mutual attraction with Danny and bonds with him over music, playing a role in his journey toward self-discovery.
312
Novel • Fiction
•
Realistic Fiction•
Modern Classic FictionConcord, Massachusetts • Contemporary
•
Forgiveness•
Loneliness2013
Albert Whitman Teen
YA
12-18 years
780L
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