Don’t you just love picture books that teach children about pivotal people in history? Today’s book, From a Small Seed tells the story of Eliza Hamilton. I have to admit to not being up on US History so the story of Mrs. Hamilton was new to me. She sounds like such an interesting person.
What I am Reviewing
From a Small Seed: The story of Eliza Hamilton.
Camille Andros
Tessa Blackham (illustrator)
Christy Ottaviano
4-8 years, 40 pages, trade paperback
Reviewed for Raincoast Books.
Social activism, women in history, government, USA history, biography,
A lyrical picture book biography of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton, co-founder and director of the first private orphanage in New York City and wife of founding father Alexander Hamilton.
Ever since she was a young girl, Eliza Hamilton hoped to help people in need. From the private quarters of her family home to her national platform as Hamilton’s partner, Eliza was a lifelong advocate for fairness, freedom and faith. The remarkable acts of charity and public service she performed after Alexander’s death are considered a significant contribution to the Hamilton legacy the world celebrates today. Here is a thoughtful, historical account of her life beginning with herchildhood influences.
The Details of From a Small Seed
Tessa Blackham has done a fantastic job of illustrating this book from the 1800’s. It feels and looks very 1800’s. The simple drawings and basic colour patterns sets the mood nicely.
I loved the simplicity of the drawings, that still provided enough detail to make the images come alive. Can’t you just see playing on the floor with the baby, or taking time to sing together? It’s a great thing isn’t it? Helps me to better understand Eliza’s life.
Thoughts/Recommendations
I was so intrigued by the story of Eliza Hamilton I headed to youtube to learn a bit more.
This story is an decent introduction to the life of Eliza Hamilton. The author changed a couple of details to make the story work better but she openly tells us what those changes are. At the close of this picture book she two page more detailed synopsis of Mrs. Hamilton’s life.
How to use From a Small Seed well?
- just to read. It is such an easy read, written in a lyrical style..
- history! Learning about the founding members of American society.
- character study… caring for orphans, teaching values, loyalty etc.
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