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This Land Is Your Land
Since Woody Guthrie wrote "This Land is Your Land" in the 1940's, it has become one of the most familiar and best-loved folk songs in America.
Now, for the first time, this classic is brought to life in a richly illustrated edition for the whole family to share. Legendary folksinger-songwriter Woody Guthrie's stirring lyrics and acclaimed folk artist Kathy Jakobsen's detailed paintings invite readers on a journey across the country, creating an unforgettable portrait of our diverse land and its people.
Featuring the complete lyrics and musical notation, as well as a biographical scrapbook and tribute by folksinger Pete Seeger, this book is a celebration of the power of a song to move people and inspire change, passing on Guthrie's undying belief that "this land was made for you and me" to a new generation.
Woody Guthrie (1912–1967) wrote more than a thousand folk songs, ballads and children's songs. His homespun humor and earthy, activist songwriting set the stage for the folk music explosion of the 1960s and influenced many popular recording artists, including Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. His musical legacy endures as countless musicians, activists, teachers, and families continue to discover and sing his songs.
Edition MSRP: $15⁹⁵ US / $21⁹⁵ Canada (ISBN 0-316-39215-4)
Printed in Hong Kong
Now, for the first time, this classic is brought to life in a richly illustrated edition for the whole family to share. Legendary folksinger-songwriter Woody Guthrie's stirring lyrics and acclaimed folk artist Kathy Jakobsen's detailed paintings invite readers on a journey across the country, creating an unforgettable portrait of our diverse land and its people.
Featuring the complete lyrics and musical notation, as well as a biographical scrapbook and tribute by folksinger Pete Seeger, this book is a celebration of the power of a song to move people and inspire change, passing on Guthrie's undying belief that "this land was made for you and me" to a new generation.
Woody Guthrie (1912–1967) wrote more than a thousand folk songs, ballads and children's songs. His homespun humor and earthy, activist songwriting set the stage for the folk music explosion of the 1960s and influenced many popular recording artists, including Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. His musical legacy endures as countless musicians, activists, teachers, and families continue to discover and sing his songs.
Edition MSRP: $15⁹⁵ US / $21⁹⁵ Canada (ISBN 0-316-39215-4)
Printed in Hong Kong
34 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1998
About the author
Woody Guthrie
71 books121 followersWoodrow Wilson "Woody" Guthrie was an American songwriter and folk musician. Guthrie's musical legacy consists of hundreds of songs, ballads and improvised works covering topics from political themes to traditional songs to children's songs. Guthrie performed continually throughout his life with his guitar frequently displaying the slogan "This Machine Kills Fascists". Guthrie is perhaps best known for his song "This Land Is Your Land" which is regularly sung in American schools. Many of his recorded songs are archived in the Library of Congress.
Guthrie traveled with migrant workers from Oklahoma to California and learned traditional folk and blues songs. His songs are about his experiences in the Dust Bowl era during the Great Depression and are known as the "Dust Bowl Troubadour." Guthrie was associated with, but never a member of, Communist groups in the United States throughout his life.
Guthrie was married three times and fathered eight children, including American folk musician Arlo Guthrie. He is the grandfather of musician Sarah Lee Guthrie. Guthrie died from complications of the degenerative neurologic affliction known as Huntington's Disease. In spite of his illness, during his later years Guthrie served as a figurehead in the folk movement providing inspiration to a generation of new folk musicians, including mentor relationships with Ramblin' Jack Elliott and Bob Dylan.
Guthrie traveled with migrant workers from Oklahoma to California and learned traditional folk and blues songs. His songs are about his experiences in the Dust Bowl era during the Great Depression and are known as the "Dust Bowl Troubadour." Guthrie was associated with, but never a member of, Communist groups in the United States throughout his life.
Guthrie was married three times and fathered eight children, including American folk musician Arlo Guthrie. He is the grandfather of musician Sarah Lee Guthrie. Guthrie died from complications of the degenerative neurologic affliction known as Huntington's Disease. In spite of his illness, during his later years Guthrie served as a figurehead in the folk movement providing inspiration to a generation of new folk musicians, including mentor relationships with Ramblin' Jack Elliott and Bob Dylan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 29, 2022
What a wonderful book! Woody Guthrie's simple but evocative lyrics (with all of the original verses restored) are brilliantly set off by the marvelous folk art oil paintings of Kathy Jakobsen.
Jakoben's artwork is what will draw you into the book. Double page landscapes depict the plains, the desert, and the dust blown wheat fields of Oklahoma. All four seasons are beautifully rendered as well. There are cityscapes (including a striking New York City with the Twin Towers still standing) and idyllic country landscapes. The Golden Gate Bridge, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Brooklyn Bridge, St. Louis Gateway Arch, Old Faithful, Seattle Space Needle, and Coney Island, among others, are American landmarks that inhabit the pages of the book. And the figure of Woody with his guitar wanders through all of them as our great American troubadour.
The layout of the book keeps it endlessly interesting for both children and adults. Most of the verses are depicted with a double page painting, while the repeating chorus takes two pages that split into multiple scenes of Americana. In the Four Corners of these pages are small quotes from Guthrie's other song lyrics and writings. Children are captured by the bright and simple artwork, while adults can become lost within the multiple possibilities that are offered on every page.
This great American anthem of the common man and his love of the land, "made for you and me", receives a worthy treatment in this book. It was a favorite of my children when they were young, and a book that I cherish. Even if you don't have kids, it would make a fine book to put out on your coffee table to delight your guests with its many charms.
Jakoben's artwork is what will draw you into the book. Double page landscapes depict the plains, the desert, and the dust blown wheat fields of Oklahoma. All four seasons are beautifully rendered as well. There are cityscapes (including a striking New York City with the Twin Towers still standing) and idyllic country landscapes. The Golden Gate Bridge, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Brooklyn Bridge, St. Louis Gateway Arch, Old Faithful, Seattle Space Needle, and Coney Island, among others, are American landmarks that inhabit the pages of the book. And the figure of Woody with his guitar wanders through all of them as our great American troubadour.
The layout of the book keeps it endlessly interesting for both children and adults. Most of the verses are depicted with a double page painting, while the repeating chorus takes two pages that split into multiple scenes of Americana. In the Four Corners of these pages are small quotes from Guthrie's other song lyrics and writings. Children are captured by the bright and simple artwork, while adults can become lost within the multiple possibilities that are offered on every page.
This great American anthem of the common man and his love of the land, "made for you and me", receives a worthy treatment in this book. It was a favorite of my children when they were young, and a book that I cherish. Even if you don't have kids, it would make a fine book to put out on your coffee table to delight your guests with its many charms.
July 30, 2024
GORGEOUS Illustrations!
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December 16, 2018This is a terrific book consisting of all the lyrics of Woody Guthrie’s iconic song “This Land Is Your Land.” The sheet music is also in the back, as well as a lovely tribute by Pete Seeger and a biography of Woody, including photographs. Pete begins by telling us that he thought the song was “one of Woody’s lesser efforts”. As he says, “that shows how wrong you can be.” The book is beautifully illustrated by Kathy Jakobsen, one of America’s leading folk artists – a perfect pairing. – Jess O.
March 11, 2010
This Land is Your Land is a song picture book recommended for students in preschool-grade 4. It is a songbook that is a tribute to the legendary folk musician Woody Guthrie and his well-known song “This Land is Your Land”. This song combined with Kathy Jakobson’s watercolor illustrations depicts the natural beauty of the United States. A brief biography of Woody Guthrie and complete music and lyrics is present at the end of the book.
In this familiar songbook, Woody Guthrie’s lyrics are teamed with beautiful watercolor illustrations to tell the unique story of the opportunities and beauty of the United States. The paintings have a 1920’s and 1930’s feel, but still hold some truth today as soup kitchens, homeless families, and various family struggles are shown. Illustrated double-page landscapes reflect the song and show the varied landscape of the United States. A unique feature of the book are labeled vignettes that include song lyrics and quotes from Woody Guthrie. Details present within the illustrations including various sights, cities, towns, and urban areas bring the song to life and capture the interest of readers. The book ends with a short biography of the songwriter, as well as the music and lyrics to “This Land is Your Land.” This book is best used in the classroom to initiate discussion about the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, or can be used as a resource for an inquiry project about our country. Since the text and illustrations work so well together, this book is likely to become a favorite of many readers.
In this familiar songbook, Woody Guthrie’s lyrics are teamed with beautiful watercolor illustrations to tell the unique story of the opportunities and beauty of the United States. The paintings have a 1920’s and 1930’s feel, but still hold some truth today as soup kitchens, homeless families, and various family struggles are shown. Illustrated double-page landscapes reflect the song and show the varied landscape of the United States. A unique feature of the book are labeled vignettes that include song lyrics and quotes from Woody Guthrie. Details present within the illustrations including various sights, cities, towns, and urban areas bring the song to life and capture the interest of readers. The book ends with a short biography of the songwriter, as well as the music and lyrics to “This Land is Your Land.” This book is best used in the classroom to initiate discussion about the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, or can be used as a resource for an inquiry project about our country. Since the text and illustrations work so well together, this book is likely to become a favorite of many readers.
November 2, 2009
Stunning representation of one of our great songs. This book seems to have “from sea to shining sea” from cover to cover. The paintings alone make a great companion to US history study, and of course the lyrics confront questions we continually face as a nation. Thorough historical information is included, including a forward from Nora Guthrie, Woody Guthries daughter and a tribute from Pete Seeger. Some editions include a CD. ALA Notable Childrens Books, 1998. Ages 8-10.
April 17, 2021
My girls love this song. "Song" books are a wonderful way to bridge time and space for young children to songs that speak to the beauty and sacrifice of our country.
April 22, 2019
This is a book where the words are the lyrics for the song "This Land Is Your Land" and the pages all have different landmarks throughout the United States. I really like this book because of the illustrator really bringing to life the lyrics of the song. We are taken through America from New York to California and all in between. This book also has a lot of great detail from quotes in the corners of the images to the information on the back page telling the reader that inside the illustrations are many people that have been important in Woody Guthrie's life.
This would be a great book to use with students because it would introduce them to many main landmarks in the United States and areas that they may never know anything about. I think you can use this book to introduce students to a topic that you may begin studying in History. I also believe that you can use this book with any age range, after all, many older students still enjoy picture books.
This would be a great book to use with students because it would introduce them to many main landmarks in the United States and areas that they may never know anything about. I think you can use this book to introduce students to a topic that you may begin studying in History. I also believe that you can use this book with any age range, after all, many older students still enjoy picture books.
November 12, 2016
What works about this book for a child with autism, is that it's a singalong book that rhymes and has a simple, repeating chorus. In terms of language acquisition, Harry and Luke are both working on their pronouns right now, so it's a nice opportunity to practice the possessive pronouns ("This land is your land, this land is my land" - perhaps reinforced with a finger point). The paintings are bright and interesting and fabulous in their detail with lots of opportunities to tact people and aspects of rural and urban landscapes. I also like that it introduces some very basic American geography. I haven't done that yet, and it's time.
Of course, the real value of this book is the basic idea that this country belongs to all of us, including those with less, and that the rich and powerful can't put up signs that say it doesn't. The message is powerful, simple, and yet completely digestible: "This land was made for you and me."
****
I review books for children from the perspective of a parent of kids with autism. The review above is part of a longer blog post about picture books with a progressive message: http://www.lineupthebooks.com/this-la...
Of course, the real value of this book is the basic idea that this country belongs to all of us, including those with less, and that the rich and powerful can't put up signs that say it doesn't. The message is powerful, simple, and yet completely digestible: "This land was made for you and me."
****
I review books for children from the perspective of a parent of kids with autism. The review above is part of a longer blog post about picture books with a progressive message: http://www.lineupthebooks.com/this-la...
February 21, 2021
Love all of the micro details.......
May 2, 2025
This is THE book to read when I worry about the fate of the world we live in - there is still hope, optimism, and people that are willing to look out for each other.
You'd think a picture book would be a quick read, but not this one. Featuring the text of Woody Gutherie's 'This Land', and some of the most detailed and colorful factoids about the United States, this book is one to read once, and then at least once more. There are so many hidden captions (tiny print, I had to hold the book up close), and it's well worth the effort to dig into as much as possible.
Featuring the United States from West to East and everything in between, this book is pure joy and nostalgia, and if you are like me, you can't just read the words, you have to sing and feel the lyrics out loud and proud.
You'd think a picture book would be a quick read, but not this one. Featuring the text of Woody Gutherie's 'This Land', and some of the most detailed and colorful factoids about the United States, this book is one to read once, and then at least once more. There are so many hidden captions (tiny print, I had to hold the book up close), and it's well worth the effort to dig into as much as possible.
Featuring the United States from West to East and everything in between, this book is pure joy and nostalgia, and if you are like me, you can't just read the words, you have to sing and feel the lyrics out loud and proud.
February 21, 2021
This patriotic narrative has a primary focus on inclusivity and the diversity that the country offers. Following a visual path across the pages, the story runs from sea to shining sea that evokes a sense of community. The heavy focus of the brightly coloured landscapes gives the idea that we are all connected by the land and the diversity of people only adds to the beauty of it all. Along with the colourful illustrations, the repetition of the narration creates an upbeat message of community and belonging to the audience. The only thing that was an interesting feature was what could be considered an image of a Southern plantation on the final pages. Of course, that is a major part of American history but it seems odd to include it with an otherwise cheerful book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2017
This Land is Your Land
By Woody Gurthrie
No awards
Grades: K-4
Summary: The book uses Gurthrie’s lyrics to showcase USA’s land.
Review: I would use this book around flag day, at the end of the year. It’s illustrations are beautiful and show the difference between different areas in the US.
Activities
For 3rd or 4th grade, have the students label a map of the US with every place mentioned in the song.
Take out a blank map of the US and color in the states according to where everyone has gone before.
Have an blank map of NY state and work together to color in the different regions.
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December 4, 2020Awards- none that i can find
Grade levels- 1-2
Summary- This book takes Woody Guthrie's classic song and puts illustrations to it. The book, just like the song, takes you all over the country! From California to New York, the forests, and beyond; with one very important message- we are all one and no one is better than anyone, we are all equal.
Review- I love the message behind this song; so in my opinion this is the perfect book to teach young student's about empathy and activism.
In class uses- Perfect for a lesson about caring and empathizing with the people around us. Could do a mini-lesson and play the song for your class and then read the book aloud.
Grade levels- 1-2
Summary- This book takes Woody Guthrie's classic song and puts illustrations to it. The book, just like the song, takes you all over the country! From California to New York, the forests, and beyond; with one very important message- we are all one and no one is better than anyone, we are all equal.
Review- I love the message behind this song; so in my opinion this is the perfect book to teach young student's about empathy and activism.
In class uses- Perfect for a lesson about caring and empathizing with the people around us. Could do a mini-lesson and play the song for your class and then read the book aloud.
February 23, 2021
“This Land is Your Land” is a singalong book based on the famous song of the same title by Woody Guthrie. While there isn’t exactly a plot, the story reiterates the theme of equality with the repetition of the phrase: “this land was made for you and me.” The illustrations are just as beautiful and as fun as the song itself, drawing the readers, or listeners in, and allowing them to envision all the places the song is talking about, all the different lands that were made for everyone to enjoy. As I read, I interpreted a happy and upbeat voice, set on reinforcing the idea that the world was made for all of us to live with one another.
October 3, 2020
I remember liking this book and the song as a kid, but as an adult now, looking at the illustrations and the message of the book, and how literally and vibrantly it shows different American cities and people, is just so cool.
Even in 2020, nearly eight decades after the song was originally published, its hopeful message rings true, and the illustrations from 1998 by Kathy Jacobsen still hold a very universal, welcoming feel.
(Reviewing as a part of my Fall 2020 kids' books reviews!)
Hardcover from my place of work, Oxford Exchange in Tampa, Florida
Even in 2020, nearly eight decades after the song was originally published, its hopeful message rings true, and the illustrations from 1998 by Kathy Jacobsen still hold a very universal, welcoming feel.
(Reviewing as a part of my Fall 2020 kids' books reviews!)
Hardcover from my place of work, Oxford Exchange in Tampa, Florida
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November 29, 2020This Land is Your Land has not recieved any wards that I am aware of, and is appropriate for first grade students. It lays out the lyrics and music of the song "This Land is Your Land" with illustrations to accompany the words and create visual representations of the song for students. It is accesible and may be familiar to many kids already. which will make it easier to get kids engaged with the book. This song is perfect to include in a Thanksgiving-themed lesson, as many of the commonly emphasized themes of both overlap.
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September 21, 2017This book is such a fun book to read with a younger group of students. It adds pictures to the song this land is your land. All of the pictures represent American life across the country. I would read this during a social studies US culture lesson. It would be more of a brain break book, that students could sing along with, and not realize they're even learning.
January 22, 2019
A very nice young children's book with beautiful and thoughtful illustrations by noted folk-illustrator Kathy Jakobsen. Take a "walk along that ribbon highway" with your grandkids or just go with Woody if you like. No matter their age, anyone who loves and appreciates that song will enjoy this little book. Includes a tribute to Woody by Pete Seeger and the music in case you need that.
October 6, 2016
Review: : This Land is Your Land, written by Woodie Gurthrie is set to the well known song, and features beautiful illustrations by Kathy Jakobsen. I considered this a multicultural story, simply because of the diverse lifestyles conveyed for each state or area. I really enjoyed this story, mostly for the illustrations, but also because you can't help but sing along while reading. Younger elementary aged students would probably enjoy this story, it's an easy enough read, and you could always have them play the song and read along as well.
Content:
One idea I had for using this book in the classroom, would be to assign each student with one state or major landmark mentioned or illustrated, and have them research and do a presentation and/or identify that location on the map. I think this would be useful teaching geography/history, and even looking at different cultures. You could also use this story, paired with music like I mentioned above, to get readers who struggle with flow or sounding out words.
Comprehension:
Q: What is one place that you found interesting, based on the illustration(s) and why?
A: I found the Diamond Head and Wakiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii interesting. I've always wanted to visit Hawaii.
Q: Who is Woody Gurthrie? Give two facts about him or his life.
A: He was the singer who wrote the song this book refers to. He was born in Okemah, Oklahoma. And he had written over one thousand songs by the time he died in 1967.
Q: Based on the illustrations, where is the Statue of Liberty located?
A: In New York City, off of the bay.
Wonders:
1. Why did the illustrator feel it was important to include a drawing of homeless people under a bridge? What can I take away from that to make me a better person?
2. How many siblings did Woody Gurthrie have?
3. What inspired him to be a musician?
Content:
One idea I had for using this book in the classroom, would be to assign each student with one state or major landmark mentioned or illustrated, and have them research and do a presentation and/or identify that location on the map. I think this would be useful teaching geography/history, and even looking at different cultures. You could also use this story, paired with music like I mentioned above, to get readers who struggle with flow or sounding out words.
Comprehension:
Q: What is one place that you found interesting, based on the illustration(s) and why?
A: I found the Diamond Head and Wakiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii interesting. I've always wanted to visit Hawaii.
Q: Who is Woody Gurthrie? Give two facts about him or his life.
A: He was the singer who wrote the song this book refers to. He was born in Okemah, Oklahoma. And he had written over one thousand songs by the time he died in 1967.
Q: Based on the illustrations, where is the Statue of Liberty located?
A: In New York City, off of the bay.
Wonders:
1. Why did the illustrator feel it was important to include a drawing of homeless people under a bridge? What can I take away from that to make me a better person?
2. How many siblings did Woody Gurthrie have?
3. What inspired him to be a musician?
May 29, 2017
Love this song, the book's illustrations and the dedications with real pictures in the back! My Kindergarten students love singing along, and we always take time to admire the details along the way. Fantastic!
February 4, 2020
A song turned into a children's book. this book is perfect for all kids. all kids remember singing this song in music class in elementary school so turning it into a picture book for the visual effects for kids to truly understand the meaning of what the song is representing.
May 18, 2020
Woody Guthrie's classic song has been illustrated in a journey through the United States. It's a beautiful book that the whole family will enjoy! Available as an eaudiobook through Hoopla.
Reviewed by Debbie Hersh, Library Operations - Circulation, Vernon Area Public Library
Reviewed by Debbie Hersh, Library Operations - Circulation, Vernon Area Public Library
May 16, 2017
My students are amazed by the beautiful illustrations in this book, particularly the fold-out page.
July 9, 2017
Good for patriotic unit.
April 10, 2018
As far as patriotic songs go, this one isn't my favorite. But the illustrations are gorgeous.
May 21, 2018
The pictures are beautiful!
August 24, 2018
Really great illustrations accompany the lyrics to this famous Guthrie song. Many stanzas are included.
February 25, 2019
audiobook has Woody Guthrie singing the song.
March 27, 2019
The famous song is presented as a picture book with colorful illustrations that illustrate its poetic descriptions.
April 28, 2019
A very well done picture book to illustrate the lyrics to “This Land Is Your Land,” including a few verses that are rarely sung. It was written and illustrated as a tribute to Woody Guthrie.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews