Atkinson, Brooks (Justin Brooks Atkinson), 1894–1984, American journalist, b. Melrose, Mass. After being an editor for the New York Times he became its drama critic in 1925. Except for his service as a foreign correspondent during World War II, he held the position as critic until 1960. His critical opinion had much influence on the success or failure of Broadway plays. Atkinson's books include Henry Thoreau, the Cosmic Yankee (1927), Broadway Scrapbook (1947), and Broadway (1970). An ardent naturalist and conservationist, he wrote This Bright Land: A Personal View (1972).
