William J. Long

William J. Long was an American author, naturalist, and minister who lived from 1867 to 1952. Here's a summary of his life and work:

Career Highlights:

• Minister and Naturalist: Long served as a minister for the United Church of Christ. He was also a passionate naturalist who spent a significant amount of time exploring the wilderness, particularly in Maine and Nova Scotia.
• Author: He wrote over 20 books, most of which documented his experiences in nature and his observations of wildlife. Some of his most famous works include "School of the Woods," "Secrets of the Woods," and "Ways of Wood Folk."
• Writing Style: Long's writing style is known for being engaging and accessible. He often personified animals and attributed human-like thoughts and emotions to them.

Interesting Facts:

• Wilderness Exploration: Long believed that the best way to experience nature was through patient observation. He spent hours sitting quietly in the wilderness, waiting for animals to approach him.
• Travels: He would travel with his family to spend months in the wilderness each year, returning to civilization only during the winter. In the later part of his life, he felt that the wilderness was becoming too crowded and began spending his summers in Nova Scotia.

Legacy:

While William J. Long's work was popular in the early 20th century, some of his methods and characterizations of animals are considered outdated by modern standards. However, his books continue to be enjoyed by readers who appreciate his evocative descriptions of nature and his passion for the natural world.