Read the book; you'll be one-up on the other 99% who only vaguely have heard the name, and can't place it. A visit to Jefferson confirmed the President's natural instincts, providing any remaining inspiration to explore the continent west of Monticello. Interestingly, Pat's and my engagement, in Zurich, happened on the 100th anniversary of the 100th Anniversary celebration of Humboldt's birth. Wulf brings this near past into vivid context, as if we had lived in the time when news took it's time. In so doing, helps us appreciate Humboldt's impact in his own day.