Let Liberty Rise!

AUTHOR: Chana Stiefel
ILLUSTRATOR: Chuck Groenink

From the Publisher:

How did 121,000 Americans save their most beloved icon? Here is an inspiring story about the power we have when we all work together!

* “This charming history title is a true inspiration for the present. An informative must-have for all libraries.” — School Library Journal, starred review

“All rise to this evocative, empowering offering.” — Kirkus Reviews

“[A] true tale of cooperation among all ages.” — Publishers Weekly

On America’s 100th birthday, the people of France built a giant gift! It was one of the largest statues the world had ever seen — and she weighed as much as 40 elephants! And when she arrived on our shores in 250 pieces, she needed a pedestal to hold her up. Few of America’s millionaires were willing to foot the bill.

Then, Joseph Pulitzer (a poor Hungarian immigrant-cum-newspaper mogul) appealed to his fellow citizens. He invited them to contribute whatever they could, no matter how small an amount, to raise funds to mount this statue. The next day, pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters poured in. Soon, Pulitzer’s campaign raised enough money to construct the pedestal. And with the help of everyday Americans (including many thousands of schoolchildren!) the Statue of Liberty rose skyward, torch ablaze, to welcome new immigrants for a life of freedom and opportunity!

Chana Stiefel’s charming and immediate writing style is perfectly paired with Chuck Groenink’s beautiful, slyly humorous illustrations. Back matter with photographs included.

Leah’s Thoughts:

I love it when a picture book introduces history in a way that feels personal, and this one does exactly that. My boys were fascinated that kids just like them helped raise the money to finish the Statue of Liberty’s pedestal. It’s inspiring, patriotic, and perfect for sparking conversation about how small actions can make a big difference.