This book is one of the great works of literature. Moreover, Henry Van Dyke was a passionate believer in God's heart of compassion for man, fostering a companionship with nature, and promoting a reverent view of life.
Van Dyke became a man of great influence, making notable contributions in the fields of education, religion, diplomacy, and literature. As an educator, Van Dyke was the Murray Professor of English Literature at Princeton University. As a minister he became the pastor of the famous Brick Presbyterian Church in New York City. As a public servant he served his country as Ambassador to the Netherlands and Luxembourg in 1913.
But it was as a writer that Van Dyke gained his greatest stature. Van Dyke was considered to be one of the most important American short story writers of his time. Apart from his love of learning, these books also showed his love for his fellow man.
Henry Van Dyke lived a wholehearted Christian life, and a life of brilliant contribution to society.