Walt Whitman: Words for America

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Kerley, Barbara. 2004. Walt Whitman: Words for America. Ill. Selznick, Brian. New York: Scholastic Press.

ISBN 9780439357913

Plot Summary:

Most of us probably know Walt Whitman for his poetry. However, his involvement with the Civil War might be somewhat unknown to many. The book Walt Whitman: Words for America presents children with a simple story of Walt Whitman’s life and poetry, particularly focusing on his strong emotions against the civil war and his love for America. The book begins by focusing on Whitman’s influences and passion for what makes America great, including its landscape and people. With the Civil War dividing the nation, Whitman sees America differently. He begins to devote his time caring for the wounded soldiers and comforting the dying. His poetry begins to reflect what America is enduring during this time period and captures Whitman’s compassion for his country and fellow man.

Critical Analysis:

Walt Whitman: Words for America is made up of simple and clear text, with vibrant illustrations throughout. An additional author’s note, illustrator's note and sources section is included. The design is visually appealing and the text readable without being overwhelming to the younger reader. Kerley presents the information concerning Whitman’s life in a straightforward manner and includes brief, applicable poem excerpts. Selznick enhances each stage of the book, presenting colorful illustrations with meaningful content. The text follows a story-telling approach that is interesting and informative.

Walt Whitman’s empathy towards America and the people who have helped shape the country is an evident theme throughout the book. Whitman’s sympathy for the soldiers suffering during the Civil War is a great example of how Kerely emphasizes this throughout a large portion of the writing. One example in particular being his devotion to those dying: “…he sometimes stayed in the hospital late into the evening, keeping close but quiet company so that a young soldier would not have to die alone.” Whitman was also known to write letters to the families of those he comforted before death. A letter is included in the story and is a strong testament to Whitman’s devotion to his country.

Awards:

New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books of the Year, 2004

Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal Honor, 2005

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, September 2004:

“A cultural force rendered with power and immediacy for a new generation.”

 

School Library Journal, Starred Review:

“Libraries will want to add this unabashedly glowing tribute as well for the infectious zeal both author and illustrator bring to their subject and his writings, excerpts of which can be found woven seamlessly into the text and the art.”

 

Connections:

*There is an excerpt within the text of the poem O Captain! My Captain! The complete poem is located in the back of the book. Have students read the full version and talk about the individual lines and how they compare with Lincoln’s assassination.

*Other works about Walt Whitman and books showcasing his poetry:

Levin, Jonathan. Poetry for Young People: Walt Whitman. Ill. Burke, Jim. ISBN 9781402754777

Whitman, Walt. When I heard the Learn’d Astronomer. Ill. Long, Loren. ISBN 9780689863974