Henry David Thoreau, one of America's most prominent environmental writers, supported himself as a land surveyor for much of his life, parceling land that would be sold off to loggers. In the only study of its kind, Patrick Chura analyzes this seeming contradiction to show how the best surveyor in Concord combined civil engineering with civil disobedience.

Booked for Murder: Lighthouse Inn Mysteries

An ex-cop, now a security man, believes that when one of Alex's guests is shot while jogging the assault is intentional. Alex decides to conduct an informal investigation, too. Alex Winston is a pleasant main character. He seems like the sort of person one would like to know. When Alex learns from a surveyor that the lighthouse may not be on his property he is made anxious. The mystery is wrapped up when the true identities of the surveyor and a muffin lady are discerned.