<DIV>Thoreau's literary classic, an elegantly written record of his experiment in simple living, has engaged readers and thinkers for a century and a half. This edition of <I>Walden </I>is<I> </I>the first to set forth an authoritative text with generous annotations. Thoreau scholar Jeffrey S. Cramer has meticulously corrected errors and omissions from previous editions of <I>Walden </I>and<I> </I>here provides illuminating notes on the biographical, historical, and geographical contexts of Thoreau's life.<BR>Cramer's newly edited text is based on the original 1854 edition of <I>Walden, </I>with emendations taken from Thoreau's draft manuscripts, his own markings on the page proofs, and notes in his personal copy of the book. In the editor's notes to the volume, Cramer quotes from sources Thoreau actually read, showing how he used, interpreted, and altered these sources. Cramer also glosses <I>Walden</I> with references to Thoreau's essays, journals, and correspondence. With the wealth of material in this edition, readers will find an unprecedented opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique and fascinating world of Thoreau.<BR>Anyone who has read and loved <I>Walden </I>will<I> </I>want to own and treasure this gift edition. Those wishing to read <I>Walden </I>for<I> </I>the first time will not find a better guide than Jeffrey S. Cramer.</DIV>