<p>“The author has triumphed—Lepman comes across as … a steadfast and courageous advocate for children and their books. The subject’s dedication, candor, and sheer chutzpah burst off the page.” — <b><i>Kirkus</i></b>, Starred Review</p>
<p>“There’s an optimism to be found in this lengthy profile of Lepman, presented here as a dogged champion for children and a believer in books.” — Publishers Weekly</p>
<p>“[An] inspiring story.” — <b><i>The Bulletin Center for Children’s Books</i></b></p>
<p>“Told with beautiful illustrations and prose, <i>Jella Lepman</i> is an uplifting true story about the power of art. Its central messages of using literature to build bridges and of libraries as a place of safety and learning are as relevant as ever.” — <i>Foreword Reviews</i></p>
<p>“Well-researched, insightful, and consistently engaging…” — <b><i>Booklist</i></b>, Starred Review </p>
<p>“Paterson compellingly describes Lepman’s vision of literature as life-changing and restorative after the tragedies of the war. Her accomplishments, rooted in strong convictions and boundless energy, are also a testament to the power of books.” — <b><i>Jewish Book Council </i></b></p>
<i>A Booklist Editor's Choice Selection for 2025</i>
<i>A Kirkus Best Middle Grade Book of 2025</i>
“An accessible and inspiring introduction to Jella Lepman’s work that provides a meaningful read for children and adults alike, especially those interested in history, literacy, and the transformative power of books.” —<b><i> School Library Journal</i></b>
Jella Lepman was a woman who stood her ground, challenged convention, and worked fiercely to transform her biggest dreams into reality.
In 1945, when Jella was tasked with what seemed like an insurmountable challenge―to create a haven of imagination and joy for the children of a Germany scarred by war—she turned to a steadfast companion: books. As a Jewish woman who had fled from the Nazis, Jella was determined to restore a sense of childhood to the young people who had only known conflict and violence. Despite constant obstacles, Jella persevered, and with the help of publishers and children from around the world, she amassed an extraordinary collection of 4,000 children’s books in pursuit of her mission to promote peace. The roving literary collection would eventually find a home as the International Youth Library in Munich, now with over 600,000 items, the largest collection of children’s books and materials in the world.
Jella Lepman and Her Library of Dreams is a thrilling and heartfelt exploration of one woman’s extraordinary belief in the power of books to transform young lives. Perfect for readers who enjoy illustrated biography, true adventure nonfiction, and empowering stories of women in history, this makes an outstanding addition to classroom and home libraries.
Produktdetaljer
Biografisk notat
Katherine Paterson is the award-winning author of more than forty books, including eighteen novels for children and young people. She is a two-time winner of the Newbery and National Book Awards and National Ambassador for Young People's Literature emeritus. For her body of work, she was accorded the highest international honors in the world of children’s books, the Astrid Lindgren Memorial and Hans Christian Andersen Awards, and named an honorary lifetime member of the International Board of Books for Young People. In 2000, she was named a Living Legend by the Library of Congress. Katherine has four grown children and seven grandchildren. She lives in Vermont.Sally Deng creates art for magazines, newspapers, and books and is the author-illustrator of two children’s picture books. Her art has been recognized by multiple illustration annuals and exhibited in galleries across the U.S. She works from her studio in Los Angeles.