[*] “In spite of his popularity even Dr. van Dyke, who attempts to supply our want of a reflective poet, leaves much to be desired in depth and significance.”
| + — | Ind. 59: 1162. N. 16, ‘05. 30w. |
“There is much that is charming and appealing in these verses. From first to last there is evidence of an unusual gift for verbal music. If they are a little too honeyed, too academic, they are also the production of a skillful artificer in words and of a mind of high culture and high ideals.”
| + + | Reader. 5: 498. Mr. ‘05. 430w. |
Van Dyke, Henry. School of life, [**]50c. Scribner.
In this thin little volume is “eloquently expressed an optimism based, not on temperament, but on faith in character, discernment of the spiritual possibilities of life, and sound judgment of ethical values.” (Outlook.)
“The characteristic charm of Dr. van Dyke’s former works is extended to the present volume.”
| + | Bookm. 21: 328. My. ‘05. 30w. | |
| + | Outlook. 79: 909. Ap. 8, ‘05. 50w. |
Van Dyke, Henry. [Spirit of Christmas.] [**]75c. Scribner.
Four essays for the Christmas tide. The first, “A dream story,” shows how power and knowledge are both insufficient to reclaim the world from sin, but that the secret of success lies in greater love; the second, “Christmas giving and Christmas living,” offers helpful suggestions on the spirit of giving; the third, “Christmas keeping,” shows the possible purification in the Christmas thought; and the two Christmas prayers make a plea for the home and the lonely ones.