Discovering Carl Sandburg

Everyone knew his name...

During the first half of the twentieth century, Carl Sandburg seemed to be everywhere and do everything: poet and political activist; investigative reporter, columnist, and film critic; lecturer, folk singer, and musicologist; Lincoln biographer and historian; children's author; novelist; and media celebrity. In number of books sold, platform appearances delivered, and honors bestowed, he was one of the most successful American poets of the century. At his death in 1967, six thousand mourners gathered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. to pay their respects. But as time went on, his fame began to fade, and by the twenty-first century, the public knew little, if anything, about his legacy.

Discovering Carl Sandburg fills the gap for a new generation of readers. The opening chapter describes Sandburg's humble beginnings in Galesburg, Illinois and the final chapter reflects on his legacy. The remaining chapters discuss a different aspect of his achievements or touch upon his personal life-such as his wife's world-famous goats. Historical context, humorous anecdotes, examples of his poetry and prose, and insightful quotations from authors who wrote about Sandburg provide fresh insight.

Sandburg's eclectic life and works will amaze you. Come discover-or rediscover-this remarkable American icon. He deserves to regain his place in American culture.

The book is less a standard biography than a collection of short essays, roughly in chronological order, on the highlights of Sandburg's life and career. Although clearly the work of a scholar, Discovering Carl Sandburg is intended more for general readers than for literary critics and academics. While authoritative and full of facts it is, at the same time, a quick read. It is refreshingly brief; detailed without being tedious; and comprehensive in scope. Highly recommended.

E.M. Rickerson, Ph.D, Professor Emeritus, College of Charleston

Discovering Carl Sandburg is the perfect starting point for those seeking a better understanding and appreciation of Carl Sandburg's many-faceted life and works, and it serves as a gateway text to its readers, whetting their appetites for further reading of works by and about America's Poet

J. Richard Sayre, Carl Sandburg Historic Site Association board member

An easy read, it feels like I was having a comfortable conversation with a friend. I sat down to read one chapter and had completed the first three without even realizing it. John is a natural storyteller. The book is historical and quietly compelling and full of anecdotes and quotes. It makes me wish I had met Sandburg.

Nancy Leon, retired school-teacher from Vermont

Dr. John W. Quinley, a retired college administrator and faculty member, was raised in Maywood Illinois-just a few blocks from where Sandburg had lived thirty years earlier. He directed planning and institutional research offices for a graduate school, a national association, and community colleges in four states. He taught classes in history, government, and humanities and currently works as an adjunct instructor for American History for Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in North Carolina. John holds an EdD in Higher Education Administration and an MA in Humanities.Dr. Quinley served as a docent for Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site for several years, and writes articles and gives presentations about Sandburg. He and his wife, Melissa, live in Hendersonville, North Carolina-just a few miles from Sandburg's former home.

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