“Liberty-Loving Lafayette” by Dorothea Jensen

Liberty-Loving Lafayette: How “America’s Favorite Fighting Frenchman” Helped Win Our Independence

Dorothea Jensen
Past Times Press (2023)
ISBN: 979-8987784464
Reviewed by Kathy Stickles for Reader Views (05/2023)

            “Liberty-Loving Lafayette: How ‘America’s Favorite Fighting Frenchman’ Helped Win Our Independence” is one of the best things I have seen in a while. I think the concept Dorothea Jensen has of teaching younger kids about the history of our country in this way is simply wonderful and I adored it.

            “Liberty-Loving Lafayette” is a short, very creative, rhyming look at what this Frenchman did to help our country achieve its independence from Britain. In this brief set of pages, we are introduced to Lafayette, witness his friendship with George Washington, and are shown all the things he accomplished as America fought for its independence. This was a very serious and dangerous period in history and Dorothea Jensen has given it back to children, and yes, even adults, in an extremely fun way. Thanks to a little Broadway hit titled “Hamilton,” the reader can actually see how this could be put to music and used as an amazing educational tool. I must admit, I was kind of singing the poem in my head as I read the book. You honestly can’t help yourself.

            The book is perfectly written and the pictures on each page are a wonderful addition to the text. Personally, I think that this is an excellent way to make history more interesting to children and it also has a few things to teach adults. I learned a lot about Lafayette in reading these few pages that I did not know. He was certainly an interesting figure and did so much to aid the people of America during this period. It was interesting to me, and a creative and new way to learn something.

            Another thing that I found great about the book is the glossary of terms and the extensive list of classroom questions at the back of the book. To me, these extra materials make the book a must-have for classrooms and school libraries. The questions are insightful and will definitely aid children as they learn about Lafayette and his part in history.

            “Liberty-Loving Lafayette” by Dorothea Jensen is an excellent and informative book that I think will be enjoyed by all. It is clear and full of fun and interesting historical facts. It is well worth the read and a wonderful example of how learning can be very fun for students. 5 Stars!