Let Liberty Rise!: How America's Schoolchildren Helped Save the Statue of Liberty

All rise to this evocative, empowering offering.

Gr 1-3--Children are often enchanted by large things, and the size of the Statue of Liberty, even in her original unassembled state, will capture their interest. Readers learn how Americans initially turned their noses up at this gift from France, which would require America to build and pay for an expensive pedestal. Playful, engaging illustrations feature speech bubbles that quote outraged citizens. The heart of the story focuses on Joseph Pulitzer's plan to publish the name of any donor, regardless of the size of the donation. Pulitzer, born in Hungary to parents of Jewish descent, bought the New York World and printed his call to action in the paper. The fundraiser galvanized schoolchildren, who individually and collaboratively sent in their coins, contributing to Pulitzer's success and the raising of more than $100,000 to complete the pedestal. Characters are depicted with light skin and brown skin. The story of Lady Liberty's precarious beginnings shows how much can be accomplished when people band together. Rich back matter includes a time line, photos, additional information, and a bibliography. VERDICT This charming history title is a true inspiration for the present. An informative must-have for all libraries.--Gloria Koster, formerly at West Sch., New Canaan, CT

Groenink's cartoon-style illustrations jauntily animate Stiefel's account of how children helped ensure the Statue of Liberty would stand tall in New York Harbor. When money to complete the statue's pedestal ran out, newspaperman Joseph Pulitzer appealed to readers to raise funds. Digitized gouache and pencil vignettes show an inclusive group of earnest children making contributions, from a "poor office boy" mailing in a nickel to a kindergarten class in Iowa lining up to send more than a dollar. Donations from both children and adults raised more than $100,000 toward the pedestal's completion. While a late spread reveals the full-height Lady Liberty amid a firework-filled inaugural celebration, the story ends on a quieter note, with the radiant statue backed by sunlit storm clouds, welcoming shipboard immigrants into the harbor. A timeline, bibliography, and further reading list, as well as additional statue facts and archival photos, conclude this true tale of cooperation among all ages. Ages 6-8. (Mar.)

Praise for Let Liberty Rise:

* Playful, engaging illustrations feature speech bubbles that quote outraged citizens... The story of Lady Liberty's precarious beginnings shows how much can be accomplished when people band together. Rich back matter includes a time line, photos, additional information, and a bibliography. This charming history title is a true inspiration for the present. An informative must-have for all libraries. — School Library Journal, starred review

Sparkling language movingly describes how everyday folks effect powerful change. Readers will relish knowing that kids played a pivotal role in the campaign; many actual quotes from children are included. Lively, colorful illustrations capturing the period depict diverse characters and wonderful perspectives... The backmatter includes fascinating informative material... All rise to this evocative, empowering offering. — Kirkus Reviews

Groenink's cartoon-style illustrations jauntily animate Stiefel's account of how children helped ensure the Statue of Liberty would stand tall in New York Harbor... A timeline, bibliography, and further reading list, as well as additional statue facts and archival photos, conclude this true tale of cooperation among all ages. — Publishers Weekly