Title: Emma’s Poem
The Voice of the Statue of Liberty
By: Linda Glaser
Painted by: Claire A. Nivola
Grade Level: 1st-4th
Emma’s Poem, The Voice of the Statue of Liberty tells the story of Emma, a little girl who grew up with having plenty of everything. As an adult Emma was a well known writer but, only knew people who were as fortunate as her. One afternoon Emma visited Ward’s Island in New York Harbor. She was shocked to meet poor Jewish immigrants who had traveled from Eastern Europe across the ocean to New York. Emma felt sad and hurt seeing so many individuals who were mistreated and unfortunate. Emma wanted to make a change and help the people. Later Emma found out France was constructing a statue to give to the United States as a friendship gift. To raise money famous writers were asked to write something. Emma wrote a poem that was read at the pedestal fundraiser celebration. Her poem demonstrated a strong voice speaking up for immigrants. The Statue of Liberty was given to the United States by France as a friendship gift. Emma Lazarus wrote a poem expressing a strong voice about immigrants, giving them an opportunity and making a change for the well being of people.
Emma’s Poem, The Voice of the Statue of Liberty demonstrates Element #4, Social Movement and Social Change. Emma grew up having plenty of everything. She did not realize everyone was not as fortunate as her. When she saw the poor Jewish immigrants she felt sad and upset but knew she would be the voice of these people. As a talented writer Emma Lazarus wrote poetry expressing her attitude to make a difference.
I feel this book is an appropriate tool in the classroom. Emma’s Poem, The Voice of the Statue of Liberty is the perfect introduction book discussing the history of the Statue of Liberty, immigration and famous writers and poets. Emma Lazarus, which the book is based around, Mark Twain and Walt Whitman are a few famous writers mentioned. After, teacher’s can plan a field trip to the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island, New York, NY. Students will be given the opportunity to see the Statue of Liberty and Emma’s engraved poem.
Today Emma Lazarus poem is well known, just like the Statue of Liberty is well known as the mother of immigrants. As future teachers we are motivated to make a difference in student’s lives. Creating a positive attitude towards change and the want to help people in the classroom will allow students the opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.
Buy it here:
Learn more about Emma Lazarus
Visit the Statue of Liberty
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