Lady Liberty: A Biography

Bibliography:
Rappaport, Doreen. 2008. Ill.by Matt Tavares. LADY LIBERTY: A BIOGRAPHY. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press. ISBN: 9780763625306.

Review: In Lady Liberty, Rappaport presents the reader with a history of the Statue of Liberty's birth, construction, and finally her unveiling in 1886. Unlike most biographies, Rapport brings the details of Liberty's construction to life by having individuals, who were important to her birth reveal the story. Wanting to celebrate America's 100 year old anniversary, Frenchman Edouard De Laboulaye, desires to present America with a gift in order to commemorate their independence. Auguste Bartholdi, a famous French sculptor, begins raising money for the endeavor and begins work on the famous statue. Many other famous people are featured such as the poet Emma Lazarus and the famous publisher and writer Joseph Pulitzer as well as their part in Liberty's story. Written in free verse, Rappapport's flowing script takes the reader back to the 1800's, when America was first viewed by the world as a land full of freedom, opportunity, and equality. Matt Tavares's painted illustrations are at times so realistic one feels they could be a picture instead. Tavares's illustrations work beautifully with Rappapport's story and captures perfectly the hope, passion, and determination of the many people involved with Lady Liberty's fate.

Excerpt: “Auguste Bartholdi”

Every part of her shouts freedom.
In one hand she holds a tablet,
engraved with July 4, 1776.
In her other hands she holds a torch.
These flames do not destroy.
Mon Americaine does not conquer with weapons.
True liberty triumphs through Truth and Justice and Law.

She wears a flowing robe
like the ancient goddess Libertas.
Her right foot is raised.
Liberty walks.
Freedom never stands still.
A broken shackle and chain lie near her feet.
America broke the links of slavery
to fulfill its promise of equality for all.

President Cleveland steps forward.
The crowd quiets.
“We will not forget that Liberty
has made her home here,” he says.

Introducing the Poem:
Lady Liberty is not only an informative biography on the Statue of Liberty, but an interesting tale as well. Students of all ages will enjoy learning about her history and about the many people that made her presence here in America possible. Rappapport's book would be a great starter or even an addition to an American history lesson. Most children are familiar with the statue, but are unaware with what she represents. Lady Liberty is a great tool that will inform its readers what the Statue of Liberty and America means to the rest of the world.