Who Was Walt Whitman?

By Kirsten Anderson, Who HQ, Tim Foley (Illustrator)

Part of the Who Was . . . ? series

Discover how a New York printer transformed into a revolutionary poet, reshaping American literature forever.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 146 ratings

112 pages· 7,519 words· Est. 1 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

Walt Whitman, once a humble New York printer, embarked on a journey across America, witnessing its vastness and divisions. As the Civil War loomed, he harnessed the power of words to unite a fractured nation. In 1855, he published 'Leaves of Grass,' a groundbreaking collection that celebrated the common man and diversity. Though initially misunderstood, Whitman's innovative style left an indelible mark on literature. Explore his transformation from an ordinary printer to a literary icon who captured the essence of America. What drove him to defy conventions and inspire generations with his visionary poetry?

From the publisher

How did a New York printer become one of the most influential poets of all time? Find out in this addition to the Who HQ library! Walt Whitman was a printer, journalist, editor, and schoolteacher. But today, he’s recognized as one of America’s founding poets, a man who changed American literature forever. Throughout his life, Walt journeyed everywhere, from New York to New Orleans, Washington D.C. to Denver, taking in all that America had to offer. With the Civil War approaching, he saw a nation deeply divided, but he also understood the power of words to inspire unity. So in 1855, Walt published a short collection of poems, Leaves of Grass, a book about the America he saw and believed in. Though hated and misunderstood by many at the time, Walt’s writing introduced an entirely new writing style: one that broke forms, and celebrated the common man, human body, and the diversity of America. Generations later, readers can still find themselves in Whitman’s words, and recognize the America he depicts. Who Was Walt Whitman? follows his remarkable journey from a young New York printer to one of America’s most beloved literary figures.

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