Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Emotional, Educational, Inspirational
This book offers a lot of opportunities for learning. On the surface, it's the story of a legendary writer, Carl Sandburg, taking a fledgling, Kenneth Dodson, under his wing. This was, apparently, a rare event for Sandburg, who was noted for his eccentric and curmudgeonly ways. His help and motivation led to Dodson's critically acclaimed novel, "Away All Boats," a book that is as much autobiographical as fictional. In the end, the relationship goes beyond student and pupil as the two men begin and maintain a nearly 20 year friendship that defies their differences. On another level, through his wartime letters, this book tells the true story of a war-weary naval officer that has seen too much, done too much and worked himself beyond human endurance. Dodson was a natural writer and his letters home were inspirational and sometimes heart-wrenching. I must admit to not being entirely unbiased in my review. I got to know Ken Dodson in his later years. He was as deep and honest as the oceans he sailed. I must also admit that this book's main attraction for me was to learn a bit more about two men I admire, but being a writer I appreciated Sandburg's commonsense writing advice. To fully appreciate this book, "Away All Boats" is almost required reading but those who cling to Carl Sandburg's every word will find many pearls of wisdom to enjoy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Slanted but very interesting
Part biography, part memoir - all hagiography of the poet-historian. It's most interesting, though, and well written. Sandburg, was simple, patriotic, direct and thus not a favorite with modern critics ( a shame). Golden gives lavish praise for Sandburg's poetry and the Lincoln biography. If you care at all about Sandburg, you should like this book. ... Read more

Product Description
From humble beginnings in a small Midwestern town in 1878, Carl Sandburg grew to be an extraordinary man of letters. Sandburg was well loved for his poetry and biographies, but he was never an ivory tower intellectual, hidden away from the struggles and history of his country. Whether he was marching in Puerto Rico during the Spanish-American War or campaigning for Franklin Delano Roosevelt during World War II, Sandburg lived life fully, and preferably at the center of the action. By the time he died in 1967, Sandburg had written many books of poetry, a novel, a six-volume biography of Abraham Lincoln, children s books, and many, many speeches. Through it all, and even when he was zestfully attacking his county s political or religious leadership, Sandburg s profound love for his country came through. He adored the United States, although he saw its complicated and violent history clearly, as perhaps no other leading writer has. The American people saw the truth and eloquence of his work and showered Sandburg with affection. ... Read more