Scouting for Boys: A Handbook for Instruction in Good Citizenship

Scouting for Boys by Robert Baden-Powell is the original blueprint and self-instructor of the Boy Scout Movement. It is a compilation of jingoist lore, tracker legend, adventure fiction, and Baden-Powell's autobiography, and is seamed through with the multiple anxieties of its time. Elleke Boehmer's edition reprints the original text and illustrations, and her fine introduction investigates a book that has been cited as an authority by militarists and pacifists, capitalists, and environmentalists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 27 September 2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Scouting for Boys, written by Robert Baden-Powell in 1908, is a remarkable blend of Zulu war cries, imperial and urban myths, borrowed health and hygiene tips, and woodcraft object lessons. This iconic book has become one of the all-time bestsellers in the English-speaking world, serving as a comprehensive manual for youth. Despite its influence, Scouting for Boys is a complex and multifaceted text. It incorporates jingoist lore, tracker legends, lengthy quotations from adventure fiction, and Baden-Powell's autobiography. At the same time, it reflects the multiple anxieties of its time, including fears of degeneration, concerns about masculinity and self-restraint, and invasion paranoia.

Elleke Boehmer's edition of Scouting for Boys reprints the original text and illustrations, providing a valuable resource for those interested in exploring this influential book. In her fine introduction, Boehmer delves into the book's significance, examining how it has been cited as an authority by militarists, pacifists, capitalists, and environmentalists alike. She sheds light on the enduring appeal of Scouting for Boys and its ability to resonate with readers across different ideological backgrounds.

Scouting for Boys is not just a manual for youth; it is a reflection of the values and beliefs of its time. It promotes self-discipline, teamwork, and respect for nature, and it encourages young individuals to develop their physical and mental abilities. The book's lessons are still relevant today, and its influence can be seen in various youth organizations and movements worldwide.

In conclusion, Scouting for Boys is a fascinating and complex text that has left an indelible mark on the world of youth education and development. Elleke Boehmer's edition of the book provides a valuable resource for those seeking to understand its significance and its enduring influence. Whether you are a scout, a reader, or simply interested in the history and culture of youth movements, Scouting for Boys is a must-read.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 220 x 143 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198799993