The Two Brothers

by William Jaspersohn, Michael A. Donato (Illustrator)

Award-winning author William Jaspersohn brings American history alive in a moving immigrant tale. The story retells the amazing, true saga of the Eurich brothers from Prussia, who arrive five years apart in America in the 1880s and who miraculously end up on neighboring farms in central Vermont. An activity page offers suggestions to young readers about ways to explore their own family heritage. Ages 6-10

Genres: Picture Books, Family

32 pages, Hardcover

First published August 25, 2000

Reviews

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book would be good to read to students who are learning about immigration. The book covers the story of a brother who leaves Prussia to seek a better life in America and later send his family members to come live with him as well. After months of working on a farm, he comes across his brother who coincidentally is working on a farm close by. The siblings reconnect and live through the new of their mother's death. Eventually, they take over the farm and raise their own families. I would read this book to middle to upper elementary students. This shows a good example of a family tale passed down from generations.

[Heloyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brief history of two Prussian brothers wanting to leave their homeland and travel to America. Only one could afford to go in hopes of finding work in this new land and saving enough money to send for the other. While this is a simple tale, it has a warm and satisfying ending. It is a story based on the actual experiences of two real brothers. This is a familiar story since my own history recalls such sacrifice of some family members and the great efforts made by others to share in the joy of beginning again in America.

[Hatka Kecalovic · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book The Two Bothers by William Jaspersohn is a story about two brothers who move to American from Prussia in the 1880's. This book can be used to address historical events within the 1800s. The book can also be used for lessons which deal with farm life. The story also addresses family bonds between brothers. This book can be used in 3-5 grade classrooms.

[Bekkah Riecke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the way family permeates this story of immigration to America. It is another one I think would be excellent to include in the classroom library during a 5th grade discussion of immigration.