The Great Big Wagon That Rang: How the Liberty Bell Was Saved

by Joseph Slate, Craig Spearing (Illustrator)

It's 1777, the year after the Liberty Bell was rung to proclaim American independence. A farmer fills his Conestoga wagon with the goods he intends to sell in the markets of Philadelphia's Union Square. Thinking about heading for home many hours later, he is suddenly surrounded by Colonial soldiers. With them is a giant bell. Could it be the bell, he wonders? Warnings arise about British soldiers coming to claim it...but not if the farmer has any say in the matter! Offering young readers the pleasure of a good narrative poem, this vibrantly illustrated picture book also provides an invaluable lesson in Colonial America's spirit and ingenuity.

Genres: Picture Books, American History

32 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2002

Reviews

[Tuyet Tran · Rating 4 out of 5]

A farmer sold his goods (apples, fox pelts, brooms...) in the markets of Philadelphia's Union Square. The Colonial soldiers found the Liberty bell and asked the farmer to bring the Liberty Bell to Pennsylvannia safety and away from the Redcoats (British soldiers). The trail was long and danger. When I looked at the illustration of this book,it reminded me of custom checking at the airport. Strict check-ins and check-out from the guards.

British soldiers (Red coats), farmer, wagon, liberty bell, Pennsylvania, church of Zion, Philadelphia, Colonial soldiers, American, independence.

[Zachary Alcorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was pretty cool. I liked how it was about the Liberty Bell and how they saved it from being melted down. It was also cool to see that there were a ton of bells saved during the time. Not many child history books so i thought it was cool to read.

[Janna C · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging story based on the Revolutionary War. Great for younger children.

[Lorena · Rating 2 out of 5]

The text was awkward and the story didn't give enough detail. I liked the illustrations.