"A Home For Mr. Emerson" Book Review

1.      Bibliography

Kerley, Barbara. 2014. A HOME FOR MR. EMERSON. Ill. by Edwin Fotheringham. New York City, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780545350884

2.      Plot Summary

The 19^th century philosopher and writer, Ralf Waldo Emerson, is an American icon and paves the way for himself on living a good life.  Because he was constantly moving homes as a child, Emerson wanted to plant roots and build a home in Concord surrounded by what he loved, nature, open fields, and of course a home full of books.  He takes a bride and they have children.  Emerson sets out to find friendship and a sense of community, and is able to discuss knowledge and books.  Emerson is happy to travel to speak, and host company in his home, all to discuss philosophy.  Emerson is enjoying the rewards of life he envisioned.  In his later years, he is devastated when his home and most of his prized possessions are burned in a house fire.  This is more than he can bear so he leaves for travels with one of his daughters.  He is welcomed home by his wife and a community that rebuilt his home.

3.      Critical Analysis

This picture book biography captures the nature and life style of Ralf Waldo Emerson.  Barbara Kerley focuses on the theme of hope, home roots, community, and a positive approach to living the life you build with highlighting these events in Emerson’s life.  Readers will learn in the Author’s Notes, that not all of Emerson’s days were full of joy, his first wife dies, and after he remarries, his five year old son dies of scarlet fever.  Kerley has a creative approach in including quotes of Emerson as they are a different font on the page so they stand out to readers.  She also includes references at the back and activities to do as a reader. 

Edwin Fotheringham uses digital illustrations to work with the text to inform the reader of the love of knowledge Emerson had.  The bright, full page illustrations are inviting to readers and Fotheringham finds creative ways to include books in many of the pictures.  With beautiful illustrations, informative text, referenced quotes, and more information for readers to learn about, this book inspires readers to build a life they dream of and leave them longing to learn more of this incredible man.

4.      Review Excerpt(s)

Orbis Pictus Award

Publisher Weekly – “Excellent and exuberant.”

Kirkus Reviews – “Sweet characters, skillful storytelling, and knockout illustrations.”

5.      Connections

*Students will chose one of Emerson famous quotes and design an inspirational image around it.

*Students will pull other collections about Emerson and create a digital product of his life.