How did 121,000 Americans save their most beloved icon? 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. But few of America's millionaires were willing to foot the bill.
Then, Joseph Pulitzer (a poor Hungarian immigrant turned 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. Here is an inspiring story about the power we have when we all work together!
"To encourage the public’s generosity, [Pulitzer] 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.... 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." — Kirkus Reviews
Recommended Age | 6 - 9 |
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Author | Chana Stiefel |
Illustrator | Chuck Groenink |
ISBN | 133822588X |
Publication Date | Mar 2, 2021 |
Publisher | Scholastic Press |
Language | English |