'… reading this book is a sheer delight. While pursuing her scholarly agenda, Balthrop-Lewis strengthens her portrait of Thoreau by weaving into it her own history, experience and ethical struggles. Effectively striking this balance is a difficult task, and Balthrop-Lewis manages it deftly. Her writing is at once intellectually complex and thoroughly accessible. In essence, she invites us to join her as she walks through both Thoreau's world and our own, attending to the socio-political wounds of both and cogently articulating a compassionate, ethical response. Without question, this is a walk worth taking.' Rebecca Kneale Gould, Marginalia (https://themarginaliareview.com)
Introduction. Why Thoreau Would Love Environmental Justice; 1. Thoreau's Social World; 2. The Politics of Getting a Living; 3. Thoreau's Theological Critique of Philanthropy; 4. Political Asceticism; 5. Delight in True Goods; Conclusion. The Promise of a Delighted Environmental Ethics; Epilogue. On Mourning.