Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
38(38%)
4 stars
31(31%)
3 stars
31(31%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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July 15,2025
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This is a very slow-paced and philosophical book that truly piques my interest. I find myself deeply intrigued about Henry Stuart and the town of Fairhope, AL.

The author's exploration of these subjects is both thought-provoking and engaging. It offers a unique perspective that makes it a worthwhile read.

Although it may not be a page-turner in the traditional sense, its depth and complexity are sure to reward those who take the time to fully immerse themselves in its pages.

I would rate this book 3.5 stars, as it has its flaws but overall provides a valuable and interesting reading experience.

It makes me want to learn more about Henry Stuart and Fairhope, and I look forward to seeing what else the author has to offer in future works.
July 15,2025
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Well, I live in Fairhope AL.

I have had the opportunity to visit the actual "Hermit House".

So, it was truly interesting for me to read a fictionalized account of the real life Henry Stuart.

I'm not entirely sure how others will react to this story.

However, I must say that the writing is of very good quality.

It flows quite fast, which keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

The author has done a great job of bringing the character of Henry Stuart to life, even in a fictionalized context.

It makes one wonder about the real Henry Stuart and what his life was truly like.

Overall, it was a great read and I would recommend it to others who are interested in this type of story.

Whether they have visited the "Hermit House" or not, they are sure to enjoy this fictionalized account.

July 15,2025
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This book was presented to me by a friend.

She claimed that she believed I would have a great liking for it.

To my astonishment, this book turned out to be truly remarkable, and I found myself deeply in love with it.

It is tender and exquisite!

The characters are so vivid, the writing is excellent, the flow is smooth, and the story has great depth.

It makes one carefully consider what constitutes a well-lived life.

Each page seems to draw the reader in further, making it difficult to put the book down.

The author has managed to create a world that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

It is a book that I will surely cherish and recommend to others.

I am truly grateful to my friend for introducing me to this literary gem.

July 15,2025
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I found myself in strong disagreement with a vast number of Henry Stuart's choices.

His actions and decisions seemed so ill-advised and contrary to what I would have expected.

As a result, I ultimately reached a point where I simply could not establish any sort of connection with his character.

He came across as an extremely stubborn and irritating individual, constantly frustrating my attempts to understand or empathize with him.

For me, this book feels a bit self-indulgent.

It seems to be more about glorifying the highly self-indulgent man that Henry Stuart is, rather than presenting a well-rounded and engaging story.

Perhaps others may see something different in his character or find value in the narrative, but for me, it just didn't quite hit the mark.
July 15,2025
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Henry Stuart's life took an unexpected turn when he made the decision to leave Idaho and journey to the charming town of Fairhope, Alabama.

This move was not one of adventure or exploration but rather a choice to face his impending death in solitude.

Armed with the profound words of philosophy as his guide, Henry embarked on this final chapter of his life.

The biographical novel that tells his story is both intriguing and satisfying, delving deep into his thoughts, emotions, and the events that led him to this point.

It explores the themes of mortality, the search for meaning, and the power of philosophy to provide comfort and guidance in the face of the unknown.

As readers follow Henry's journey, they are drawn into his world, experiencing his joys and sorrows, and gaining a deeper understanding of the human condition.

This novel is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of a well-crafted narrative to touch the hearts and minds of its readers.
July 15,2025
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The Poet of Tolstoy Park is an exquisitely written historical fiction novel penned by Sonny Brewer, which delves into the life of Henry James Stuart. It takes us on a beautiful spiritual odyssey with a widowed professor in Nampa, Idaho, in the early 20th century. Henry has been diagnosed with a non-contagious form of tuberculosis that is expected to claim his life within a year. Leaving the doctor's office, devastated by the news, he leaves his boots on the porch and walks home barefoot, in touch with the earth and grappling with the reality of his situation.


Books have always been an integral part of his life. Although he knows he will miss his magnificent library, he realizes it's time to move forward. So, he distributes all his possessions among his sons, Harvey and Thomas, and his best friend Will. As he does so, he feels a growing sense of relief, yet the distribution of his books still feels like a loss.


After researching various places to spend the remainder of his life, Henry chooses Fairhope, Alabama, mainly because of its beautiful location and its connection to Leo Tolstoy, one of his favorite authors. He finds a perfect ten-acre plot above Mobile Bay and departs from Nampa with two satchels, one containing his most precious books, as he boards a train for Mobile. His first night there, he endures a hurricane in a cistern, and during that terrifying night, he realizes he must build a structure in the pattern of a circle to house him. And thus, The Poet of Tolstoy Park is born.


This book is truly a gem that I will return to time and again. Oh, and now Fairhope, Alabama, has firmly made its way onto my bucket list!

July 15,2025
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Retired philosophy Professor Henry James Stuart has a great deal to learn, yet time seems to be in scarce supply. It is 1925, and at the age of 67, he has been diagnosed with tuberculosis and given perhaps only 1 year to live. The doctor informs him that death would be more bearable if he were in a warmer climate than his home in Canyon County, Idaho.

Henry feels that moving is the right decision as he doesn't want his two grown sons to witness his death in the same way he watched his wife die just two years earlier. Additionally, he believes that the time away from all distractions will provide him with the opportunity to perfect his soul. As Henry is deciding on which part of Southern California to move to, he receives information about a small town in South Alabama.

Henry Stuart is a great admirer of writer/philosopher Leo Tolstoy. He has read that Tolstoy was a fan of economist/philosopher Henry George. Now, Mr. Stuart discovers that in 1894, followers of Mr. George established a "single-tax" colony in Southern Alabama and named their town Fairhope. The move there makes sense to Henry Stuart.

What follows is not a story about Henry's dying year. It is a story about why Henry chose to live out his remaining life barefooted. It is a story about why Henry spent the next year of his life building a 14-foot round, concrete hut to live in. It is a story about the town of Fairhope, of dreams, philosophers, children, schools, osprey, hurricanes, and how a retired professor learned a new way of life.

Fairhope remains a beautiful and thriving town to this day. The Fairhope Single Tax Corporation is still in operation, with approximately 1,800 leaseholds covering more than 4,000 acres in and around Fairhope. Founded in 1907, the Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education still serves some of Fairhope's children from first through eighth grade.

Henry Stuart's concrete hut, Tolstoy Park, still stands today and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. I recently visited, strolled about the site while barefooted, grounding myself in the spirit of Tolstoy Park. I then went inside, sat by a window, and read a significant portion of this book.

The story also sparked my interest in other books, such as "Black Elk Speaks: Being the Life Story of a Holy Man of the Oglala Sioux (Lakota) as told through John G. Neihardt (1932)", "Progress and Poverty by Henry George (1879)", and "A Calendar of Wisdom by Leo Tolstoy (1911)".

Sonny Brewer is quoted as saying, "Fairhope is home to more published authors per capita than any place else in the country. At one point not many years back, three local writers were on the New York Times bestsellers' list at the same time. One author suggested we have a billboard at the edge of town to declare, 'Fairhope, Alabama, the home of more writers than readers.'"

Overall, the story of Henry Stuart and Fairhope is a captivating one that explores themes of life, death, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence.
July 15,2025
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(Audiobook)

I'm awarding this book a full five stars. Thanks to the talented author Sonny Brewer, the unforgettable character of Henry Stuart from Tolstoy Park will remain etched in my memory for a very long time. The story truly comes alive with Rick Bragg's narration. His hypnotic southern drawl adds a unique charm and authenticity to the tale.

Henry Stuart's words, "I have no need for the institutional church. I worship God here in God's own temple, under the stars, down these paths that I walk each day by the trees," resonate deeply. It shows his profound connection with nature and his personal way of finding spiritual solace. This audiobook is not just a story; it's an immersive experience that takes you into the world of Henry Stuart and makes you feel his emotions and beliefs. It's a must-listen for anyone who appreciates great storytelling and a touch of southern charm.
July 15,2025
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If you have a penchant for Southern literature or simply have an appreciation for beautiful writing, then this novel is a must-read.

My in-laws were kind enough to loan it to me, and I am truly grateful for that. Reading "The Poet of Tolstoy Park" has strengthened my longing to one day reside in Fairhope.

Moreover, it is a book that compels readers to reflect on our life decisions. It makes us pause and consider the choices we make and how they shape our lives.

Finally, I have a deep affection for books that are based on real life. I was overjoyed to learn about Henry Stuart and his time in Fairhope through Sonny Brewer's fictionalized account. It added a layer of authenticity and richness to the story that I found truly captivating.

This novel is not only a great read but also a thought-provoking and inspiring one. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys good literature.
July 15,2025
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This story refers to an existing landmark in Fairhope, AL which I recently visited.

The landmark is truly remarkable and has a certain charm that attracts countless people. It stands there, a silent witness to the passage of time and the history of the area.

As I approached the landmark, I was immediately struck by its grandeur and beauty. The details and craftsmanship that went into its construction were evident, and it was clear that it held great significance.

The story behind this landmark is equally amazing. It is filled with tales of the past, of the people who built it, and the events that have shaped it over the years.

Exploring the landmark, I felt a sense of connection to the history and culture of Fairhope. It was as if I was stepping back in time and experiencing a piece of the city's heritage.

This visit to the landmark in Fairhope, AL was an unforgettable experience. It not only allowed me to admire its beauty but also to learn about its fascinating story.

I would highly recommend this landmark to anyone visiting Fairhope. It is a must-see attraction that offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and present.
July 15,2025
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I listened to this particular work while driving in my car. The character of Henry Stuart initially intrigued me, but as the story progressed, he became rather repugnant. For a significant portion of the time, I perceived him as pretentious, irritating, and overly self-absorbed. It was only in the later parts of the book that he underwent a change for the better, after being miraculously healed of his tuberculosis. However, by that point, my heart had already made up its mind and was not inclined to rehabilitate him. The narration by Rick Bragg was slow and had a soporific effect. Despite all of this, I find myself still curious about the real Henry James Stuart. I am probably going to Google his name and try to find out more about the actual person behind the fictional character. I am eager to discover what aspects of his life might have inspired the creation of this complex and somewhat unlikable character.

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