Young readers of all ages will love this story about President Thomas Jefferson, who found his passion as soon as he learned to read: books, books, and more books! Before, during, and after the American Revolution, Jefferson collected thousands of books on hundreds of subjects. In fact, his massive collection eventually helped rebuild the Library of Congress—now the largest library in the world. Author Barb Rosenstock's rhythmic words and illustrator John O'Brien's whimsical illustrations capture Jefferson's zeal for the written word as well as little-known details about book collecting. An author's note, bibliography, and source notes for quotations are also included.
Thomas Jefferson was, by any reckoning, one of the most remarkable men ever to have crossed America's political stage. In 1776 he drafted the Declaration of Independence, and throughout the Revolution and in the posts he held thereafter - governor of Virginia, minister to France, secretary of state, vice president, and president - Jefferson's responsibilities were enormous and his accomplishments profound. Yet during those years he also was able to design his own house, Monticello, the magnificent Palladian mansion in central Virginia, and later to establish the University of Virginia and to plan its principal buildings. And, through all this, Jefferson made purchases for a lifetime. Needing to furnish not only Monticello but also the ministerial residence in Paris - the Hotel de Langeac - and the President's House in Washington, Jefferson bought with consummate taste and an extraordinary eye for the newest in American, English, and French styles. Fascinated by science and the growing field we now call "technology", Jefferson procured or had built devices for copying letters, telescopes for exploring the stars, and even dumbwaiters to minimize dependence on servants at mealtimes. He was keenly curious about his native land and devoted to promoting its virtues, and he acquired examples of its fossils, flora, and fauna and studied its indigenous peoples. Determined that the former colonies should both enjoy their cultural patrimony and preserve their own history, he purchased original paintings and had copied what could not be bought. He commissioned busts of his intellectual heroes, as well as of the heroes of the American struggle for independence. The Worlds of Thomas Jeffersonassembles more than 150 of the objects Jefferson acquired - the first time they have been seen together since the contents of Monticello were dispersed at his death. This astonishing collection reveals the limitless range of his curiosity and the acuteness of his taste, portraying not only Jefferson the statesman but also Jefferson the architect, amateur scientist, connoisseur, farmer, and historian. The articles pictured and described range from priceless historical treasures, such as the lap desk on which the Declaration of Independence was composed, to the personal and homely, such as the wrist strap and dumbbell Jefferson was obliged to use after an injury; from precious objects of art, such as Gilbert Stuart's portraits of Jefferson, to the shards of porcelain found in excavations at Monticello; from the finely worked silver tumblers known as the "Wythe-Jefferson Cups" to the Mandan buffalo robe that was part of his collection of Native American artifacts; from the great Entrance Hall clock he designed for Monticello to the silk damask-upholstered chairs he purchased in Paris. In all, it is a collection that mirrors both the mind of America's greatest statesman and the tastes and styles of the time in history when the American people secured their own independence and offered the world an example of a free people in a democratic state. The Worlds of Thomas Jefferson is written by Susan R. Stein, curator of Monticello, who provides an introduction placing Jefferson's acquisitions within the context of his political career, family life, and intellectual pursuits. In the catalogue each object is described individually with details about its history as well as its importance toJefferson.
Crowned with a copper dome and the gilded Torch of Learning, the ornate Italian Renaissance structure of the Library of Congress's Thomas Jefferson Building (Washington D.C.) stands on top of Capitol Hill as a dazzling expression of American art, architecture, and self-confidence. Termed the 'national temple of the arts' on its opening in 1897, the structure was designed both to house America's national library and to showcase the art and culture of the growing Republic. While the grand scale of architecture was inspired by the national libraries of England and France, the decoration was American-made and modeled on elements of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This exquisite and compact book in the Art Spaces series explores the world's largest library and its role as a space for the arts.
Audisee® eBooks with Audio combine professional narration and text highlighting for an engaging read aloud experience! Let's Meet a Librarian! Are you curious about dinosaurs? Music? Volcanoes? You're in luck! Mr. Field is a librarian. He knows how to find information about all kinds of cool things. He shows the students in Mrs. Ríos's class how to use the library. Let's hear it for librarians! "Cartoon-style animated drawings in bright colors introduce diverse characters who will capture children's interest." —School Library Journal "In each book introducing a community-benefiting career, schoolchildren meet one adult to learn about his or her job; information includes the training required to become a firefighter, doctor, etc., daily routines, and primary responsibilities. The content is inclusive and up-to-date but delivered though vapid stories. Peppy computer-generated cartoons are amateur." - The Horn Book Guide Free downloadable series teaching guide available.
The Fourth of July is often called our country's birthday. What important role did Thomas Jefferson have in making this American holiday possible? Young readers will find out as they read about his writing of the Declaration of Independence, as well as his early life, his ideas for shaping a new government, and his two terms as president. They will also make connections to their own lives as they learn about the many ways Jefferson is remembered and honored today.
Super Smart Information Strategies: Hit the Books provides students with practical information on using print and ebooks. Readers are encouraged to think critically as they conduct research, collaborate with fellow students and present their findings in new and different ways.
This picture book tells the story of one girl who reminds an entire town of the joy of books. When the town's old library is destroyed by a tornado, the people are left wondering: What should they do with the space where the library used to be? The characters in Nia and the New Free Library all want different things: the builder wants there to be a new skyscraper, the grocer wants a new parking lot, but Nia just wants a new library . . . but how can one person build a whole library? • Explores the power of community and what a group can accomplish • Teaches the importance of working together toward a common goal • Reminds readers of the important role libraries play in community, and how they work Sometimes the biggest things can start with almost nothing at all. Ian Lendler and Mark Pett bring humor and heart to this clever twist on the classic "Stone Soup" folktale. • This triumphant ode to the magic of sharing stories is sure to strike a chord with bibliophiles of all genres, ages, and stripes. • Perfect for children ages 5 to 8 years old • Great for parents and grandparents, as well as librarians, teachers, and educators • You'll love this book if you love books like Stone Soup by Marcia Brown, Delivering Your Mail by Ann Owen, and Seeds and Trees by Brandon Walden.
In this inspiring tribute, award-winning author Barb Rosenstock and New York Times bestselling artist Elizabeth Baddeley tell the true story of one of America's greatest founding mothers: Abigail Adams. Everyone knew Abigail was different. Instead of keeping quiet, she blurted out questions. Instead of settling down with a wealthy minister, she married a poor country lawyer named John Adams. Instead of running from the Revolutionary War, she managed a farm and fed hungry soldiers. Instead of leaving the governing to men, she insisted they "Remember the Ladies." Instead of fearing Europe's kings and queens, she boldly crossed the sea to represent her new country. And when John become President of the United States, Abigail became First Lady, and a powerful advisor. Leave it to Abigail--an extraordinary woman who surprised the world.
