Module 4 - Social Studies Poetry

Bibliographic Citation

Rappaport, Doreen. 2008. Lady Liberty: a biography. Ill. by Matt Tavares. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN 9780763625306

Awards

Young Hoosier Book Award Nominee 2011-2012
Texas Bluebonnet Book Award Nominee 2010-2011

Review

Rappaport’s Lady Liberty is a beautifully illustrated picture book spanning the 20 project that connected two continents and the lives of many. Each first-person account gives voice to those who were instrumental in creating the Statue of Liberty and providing her a home in the New York harbor. The free-verse poems involved in this endeavor are arranged in chronological order and range from the statue’s sculptor, Auguste Bartholdi to Joseph Pulitzer who helped raise necessary funds for her pedestal, to the young girl, Florence De Foreest, who sent her two pet roosters to be sold for the cause, and many in-between. Rappaport reveals her own family’s connection to the statue as she speaks of her immigrant grandfather and his journey to America. Tavares’ artwork, in watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations provide many spectacular views as each facet of the story of this iconic statue is unveiled. The back matter provides a recommended reading list and bibliography.



Poem Title


Joseph Pulitzer
Publisher, New York World
New York city, March 1885

(an excerpt from the poem)...

'..We have more than a hundred millionaires in this city
Who could write a check for the full amount.
But no one has.
I shall ask my readers to help.
They are not millionaires,
But I know they will care,
For they will understand her importance."


Introduction or Follow-up Activity


This beautifully researched picture book would be a great companion for many lessons. The story of Lady Liberty would connect well with lessons on immigration and also lessons on writing from various points of view. I would also like to use this book when teaching lessons on media and the impact media have on our lives. It is a great example of how stories in the New York World influenced Americans to donate money to raise funds for Lady Liberty's pedestal. Even in 1885, print media was influential. this is a good example, as noted in the personal narrative poem of Florene DeForeest, the young girl who sent her roosters to Joseph Pulitzer to be sold for the cause.