A Fire in Her Bones: The Story of Mary Lyon

by Dorothy Rosen

Traces the life of Mary Lyon, the founder of Mount Holyoke College, and describes the hardships she endured to get an education

Genres: Biography

88 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1994

About the author

Married to Sidney Rosen they write the mystery series starring Belle Appleman, a Jewish immigrant who lives in Boston's West End during the 1930s.

Dorothy also wrote a biography of Mary Lyon, the founder of Mount Holyoke College.

Reviews

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this is a middle-reader biography and has some storytelling elements to it (particularly in the grating dialogue of the first chapter), it's actually a pretty good account of Mary Lyon's life. I picked it up from the library because I attended her beloved Mount Holyoke and studied the history of women's higher education, so it seemed like I was obligated to flip through it. It sat for weeks until I finally got going and actually enjoyed it. It's an inspiring tale and helps the reader really understand the climate she faced during her life and her mission to spread women's and girls' educational opportunities. The descriptions of facilities and curricula are especially strong. I'd recommend it. Get it for your young one, then borrow it for yourself.

[Miriam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly readable and entertaining for all ages.

[Katie Marinello · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the book A Fire In Her Bones: The Story of Mary Lyon by Dorothy Rosen. The book is nonfiction. It takes place in the early 1800's in America. The main character is Mary Lyon. In the book it tells you about Mary Lyon's very rough childhood. She attended school, but also did chores around her house. She eventually became a teacher. I rated this book 4 stars because it was very educational and a bit interesting. I didn't give it 5 stars because I wasn't very entertained the whole time.

[Krista the Krazy Kataloguer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting biography of the founder of Mt. Holyoke.