Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
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.)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
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
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Here's the inspiring story of how ordinary citizens helped the Statue of Liberty literally stand up. In spring 1885, Lady Liberty sailed from France, packed in pieces in 214 crates, and waited on what was to be renamed Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The pedestal on which France's gift to the United States was to stand was barely half built; the money had run out, and New York's wealthiest refused to underwrite its completion. Enter Joseph Pulitzer, publisher of the New York World. To encourage the public's generosity, he promised to print the name of every contributor to the pedestal fund, no matter how tiny the amount donated. Money flooded in from around the country, much of it from children who relinquished savings set aside for desired treats. The campaign raised $100,000, and, with additional funds from Congress, the pedestal was completed. Finally, Lady Liberty was assembled and installed, and a grand parade and flotilla celebrated her in October 1886. Sparkling language movingly describes how everyday folks effected 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; a 90-degree turn of the book near the end sets Liberty against a fireworks backdrop. The backmatter includes fascinating informative material. (This book was reviewed digitally with 9-by-22-inch double-page spreads viewed at 45.5% of actual size.) All rise to this evocative, empowering offering. (timeline, further facts, bibliography, photos) (Informational picture book. 6-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
