The Story of John Greenleaf Whittier

by Francis E. Cooke

John Greenleaf Whittier worked tirelessly on his father’s farm, making sure he finished the day’s work before allowing himself to pen the lines of poetry that filled his mind. Eventually, though a difficult choice, John Greenleaf Whittier risked his budding career as a successful poet, editor, and politician—and his life—to join the unpopular anti-slavery movement. As difficult as the decision was, Whittier knew that "the right must win and that duty must be done at all costs." He dedicated the majority of his life to fighting slavery, and as a result, he lived in poverty most of his life and struggled to care for those he loved. Little did he know the poetry and legacy he left behind would touch the lives of thousands of people for decades after his death."This book, with its vivid description and engaging writing style, transported me back to New England in the 1800s. There, I followed the story of a simple farm boy who grew into a courageous and noble man. This book is 'good and beautiful' literature at its best and is not to be missed!" — Jenny Phillips

Genres: School, Nonfiction, Read For School, Biography

89 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2018

Reviews

[Chloe M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Didn’t finish it, but what I did read was pretty good! :)

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really interesting to me as an adult. Unfortunately it was pretty much torture for the kids (age 12-15).
I was not familiar with the story of Whittier, and I expected just a boring outline of the life of a long dead poet. However, I was quite surprised to learn of Whittier's popularity and influence as part of the abolitionist movement before and during the Civil War. The book covered not only the simple life of John Greenleaf Whittier, but also the lives of several other ordinary citizens who lent their influence to the cause of freedom. Written more than a hundred years ago, this inspiring biography shows readers what a powerful difference anyone can make.
Although this book would be a quick easy read for any adult, kids and teens will likely need support understanding all the content.

[Julie Tate · Rating 4 out of 5]

A precise biography of a Quaker-American poet who with quiet passion purposed his entire life's direction in the anti-slavery movement. It was refreshing to be reminded that many MANY white Americans sacrificed both money and lives in order to see the end of slavery.

[Joy A. · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was so boring. I just couldn’t wrap my head around it AT ALL.

[Ethan Chappell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whittier was a poet who lived through the civil and was one of the strong opposers of slavery. It’s interesting to see how much sway poetry had back then, and it was how you appealed to the emotions of an induvial, but not so much anymore. He opposed slavery when the public mind was for it so he suffered many persecutions. He always thought of others and was a hero and a famous prose writer after the civil war.

[ETHAN KING · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, a great story told in an intriguing way. I love Whittier's poems, which were shared throughout the book. Read this, even if you don't enjoy biographies!
NO RESTRICTIVE CONTENT!
MUST READ FOR ALL AGES!

[Sarahjane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating to learn about this poet who fought against slavery in the 1800's. I admired him for his character. There are poems of his scattered throughout, which I liked more than a lot of poetry.

Part of the Good and Beautiful HS English 1 course.

[J.Elle · Rating 2 out of 5]

The content was good, but it was told in such a dry way that it was a terrible slog to get through. The same information could have been written much better. I would compare the writing in this book to Dwight Schrute hanging up a sign for Kelly's birthday that said, "It is your birthday." And Jim going, "What is that? Not even an exclamation point?"; and Dwight's reply, "it's a statement of fact." This book was one huge statement of fact that desperately, DESPERATELY needed a great many exclamation points.

[Bella Rowell · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this for school, and it was a super dry read. I didn't really like it because I don't like biographies, but he was an inspiring man who made a difference in our world, and I have respect for that.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another book I had to read for LA. Wasn't bad, actually probably my favorite oddly of all the ones we've read this year

[Megan Everitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read aloud for school. I enjoyed it more than the girls and I thought this slim little book was well written. It told the story of courage being encouraged and exhibited using the written word.

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read it for school and it wasn't the most boring thing ever

[Lexi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐

[Jessica]

DNF due to boredom. I'd like to try again in the future.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars as an educational and inspiring book

[Lucy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Snooze fest school read

[Julia Elkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Normally, I don’t enjoy biographies, but this one was very well written, and the poetry was gorgeous!!! I greatly enjoyed reading about the life of John Greenleaf Whittier and would definitely recommend this book.