The Liberty Bell

American Symbols #10

by Mary Firestone, Matthew Thomas Skeens (Illustrator)

Why do Americans love a bell that no longer rings? It is the Liberty Bell, and it once rang to announce the birth of a new country, the United States. Find out why Americans still treasure the bell, along with its famous crack.

Genres: American, American Revolutionary War, Childrens

Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Clay Davis]

A very good book that tells the history of the Liberty Bell. Enjoyed the online reading.

[Cognatious Thunk]

Like The White House, The Liberty Bell provides a clear and accessible overview of an American symbol with unappealing illustrations. Before the rise of AI pictures and the Comedian by Maurizio Cattelan (that's the name of the banana duct taped to the wall concept that sold for $120,000. Twice. And then for $150,000.) I would have said appallingly awful illustrations, but I'm trying to appreciate artistic efforts that demonstrate real effort, even if I don't like them. Both children were concerned over the bellringer's expression on the cover and wanted to know if he got in trouble for the bell breaking. I reassured them that the bell was old and that no one would have blamed him for it, but the bellringer could have become the town pariah for all I know. However, that's neither here nor there, what matters most is the information, which this book presents pretty proficiently.

[Melissa Dwyer]

Orignally rated G+ by Annete Sirio
Both additions to the American Symbols series (The Liberty Bell and Our American Flag) include interesting historical information presented in simple, concise language and format; bold, attractive illustrations; table of contents; facts; glossary; index; and additional sources on the topic (both books and Internet). These texts provide excellent introductions to these topics for our youngest students as well as little known facts that will appeal to older students, thus striking a balance being too simplistic or too overwhelming.

If the series has not previously been approved, it should be. Both texts recommended for purchase.

[Heidi-Marie]

Very simple book stating the most simple facts about the Liberty Bell's history. The pcitures have a slight lego-quality about them, which may or may not be appealing ot children. There are a few thing sin the back of the book to increase knowledge and encourage seeking out more information. Not the most wow book, but it does its job.

[Jessica Johnson]

This book was very interesting to me. It would be a good book for 2nd or 3rd graders to read when they learn about social studies. This book does a good job discussing what the liberty bell is while also keeping the readers engaged with the book, which is the best way a student can learn.

[Kathy Jackson]

Good quick read for kids

[Kara]

Genre: Informational
Copyright Date: 2007
Thoughts/Opinions: I thought this book was simple and to the point. It gives facts and colorful illustrations for The Liberty Bell. It would be a good book to share with students if they are learning about the history of the Liberty Bell.

[Teri]

Not as dry as a lot of nonfiction--but not wonderful.