The House That Jane Built: A Story about Jane Addams

Vowing from an early age to improve the lives of the impoverished, Addams established a settlement home, Hull House, in Chicago in 1889, creating a community refuge. The desperation of the poor is evident in their anguished grimaces as they vie for spoiled food, while children's joy as they play in Chicago's first playground (thanks to Addams) is just as clear. In a moving portrayal of empathy and innovation in action, Stone and Brown convey both the significance of Addams's contributions ("Today, every community center in America, in large part, has Jane Addams to thank"), as well as the physical transformations of those she helped. Ages 6-9. Author's agent: Rosemary Stimola, Stimola Literary Studio. (June)

K-Gr 2--This charming picture book details the life of social worker and activist Jane Addams. At a young age, Addams became aware that not all people had the advantages in life that she enjoyed, and she was determined to "find a way to fix the world." Because of the influence of her enlightened father, she went to college at a time when most women didn't. She graduated at the top of her class but was uncertain what to do next. While visiting London with friends, Addams saw poor people begging to buy rotten food at a market. Reminded of her early resolve to help the needy, she visited Toynbee Hall, a London settlement house that proposed that rich and poor live together, "settled in," so they could learn from one another. She returned home with a plan. Chicago in 1889 was home to many immigrants in search of a better life, but language barriers made it difficult to find decent jobs. Stone describes how Addams located a large house in a rough neighborhood and named it Hull House in honor of a benefactor. Addams's efforts transformed neighborhoods and lives, and by 1907 Hull House had grown into 13 community buildings. Rendered in watercolor with pen and ink, the illustrations, both full bleed and spot, beautifully evoke the time period and enhance the well-researched, accessible text. The author's note shares more of Addams's remarkable accomplishments. VERDICT A fine introduction to the first American female recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.--Sara-Jo Lupo Sites, George F. Johnson Memorial Library, Endicott, NY