Spirit of Adventure

By Alvin Townley

Subjects: Boy Scouts, Case studies, Boy scouts, Eagle Scouts, Scouts and scouting

Description: A hiking trip gone uncomfortably wrong, in violation of the first credo of Scouting to "Be Prepared," caused Townley to revisit the history of Scouting and its principles. It also provided him with the spark to begin a year of traveling the world collecting anecdotes from adults who have taken these principles of and incorporated them into their everyday lives. These men, all of whom achieved the highest honor attainable, tended to gravitate toward professions that allowed them to exemplify the service attitude and leadership they learned while enjoying the camaraderie of others. From doctor to soldier, teacher, actor, and Olympic competitor, each man had a story to tell about how Scouting led him to make choices that would enrich his life. Written with a distinctly American point of view, Townley's book puts forth the idea that the underlying principles of Scouting help boys to become men who will be compassionate, competitive leaders. An extensive index and full-color photos enhance this solidly written entry about the value of old-fashioned American gumption.