March 24th marks the physical demise of two larger than life authors. Their works however, will live on forever. Such is the power of great writers. First is Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (Feb 17, 1807 to March 24, 1882). I have several books by him.
The first is “Hiawatha” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, illustrated by Susan Jeffers, 1983. Signed by Jeffers. This book has some of the main verses by Longfellow with beautiful illustrations by Susan Jeffers. When my mom was getting her master’s in literature, she had attended several lectures by Susan Jeffers. Mom had her sign a few books. Mom also took home an interesting message. As beautiful as all of the Susan Jeffers illustrations were to everyone, Jeffers said that she hated the way hands looked when she drew them. She struggled through that piece of anatomy. Everyone has difficulties with something.
I also have “The Song of Hiawatha”, illustrated by Frederic Remington, 1968. This has the entire epic poem of Hiawatha. Then I have “Poems and Other Writings: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 2000, by the Library of America. This has all of his poetry with archival quality paper and binding, in slipcase. Not only is The Song of Hiawatha here, but Evangeline, The Village Blacksmith, and Paul Revere’s Ride.
Jules Verne also died on this date (February 8, 1828 to March 24, 1905). I have a colorful pop-up book by Sam Ita “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” published 2008. Ita takes Jules Verne’s book and makes a pop-up graphic novel, that is wonderful. This book was also signed for my Mom, when she and I went to a pop-up book convention in Philadelphia. We listened to a lecture by Ita, and then talked with him for about 20 minutes. Mom was so excited. He signed this book, and then gave her another book he wrote-Moby Dick. He not only signed that one, he drew a whale, as well.
The illustrations and pop-ups are beautiful in this book. You will have to buy it to see the best illustration. The Nautilus is sucked into a maelstrom. When you open the page, the waves move up and around the submarine and swallow it down. It is marvelous.
In the library, I have a bunch of books that have that special provenance of having the author’s signature on the work. Even more special, are books like these, ones that made my Mother happy. She collected pop-ups, and enjoyed illustrated works for kids. She studied books for kids. She earned advanced diplomas in kid’s literature. She was a teacher. My enthusiasm for books, is a pointed reflection of her enthusiasm. Her memory will live on as well.
Keep reading.
Librarytomes 