A Google user
His tone throughout the book is interesting. He speaks to his audience, and slightly above. I know I would have been shocked and flattered by his honesty and language if I had been younger when I read this. He presents facts, ideas, situations that are difficult to swallow. His honesty is a sign of respect for his young audience, something which many cautionary or pedagogical works lack. Children don't want to be told what to do by someone who talks down to them. They don't want to learn from somebody who puts on airs. I think Dr. Johnson's style is effective. I really wish Dr. Johnson used citations.