Henry Wadsworth Longfellow – Judge the power of a book Share this quote: Many readers judge of the power of a book by the shock it gives their feelings – as some savage tribes determine the power of muskets by their recoil; that being considered best which fairly prostrates the purchaser. – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Is this quotation insightful, though-provoking, useful? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0