Carl Sandburg's autobiography combines a collection of personal memories with the carefully researched history of a midwestern town. Each chapter of the book describes the people, places, and events that shaped an aspect of the writer's life. The biography is not fictionalized but gives authentic representations from Sandburg's own experiences. Sandburg devotes most of the narrative to descriptions and insights rather than action or conversation. Although the biography is not documented or footnoted, the events of the story have legitimate basis both in fact and feeling.

The tone of Prairie-Town Boy is warm but honest, poetic but unsentimental.

Sandburg uses vivid details and natural impressions to show the vulnerability, awkwardness, and sensitivity of a boy.

Written by a man in his seventies, the autobiography is a simple and thoughtful look at life that contains no moralizing or bragging. The book has unity of form and style...