What Emma Wrote: The Woman Behind the Words on the Statue of Liberty
Apples and Honey Press
Release Date: March 3, 2026
ISBN: 978-1681157191
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What Emma Wrote: The Woman Behind the Words on the Statue of Liberty
With its poetic message of welcome, the Statue of Liberty holds an important and beloved place in American history. In time for anniversary of our nation’s founding, this biography of the woman who wrote the now-famous poem on its pedestal has deep relevance for readers today.
Emma loved stories, loved writing poetry, and was curious about the world. When she met poor immigrants arriving in New York City, she knew she had to help. And when she was asked to write a poem about the Statue of Liberty, she imagined Lady Liberty as a mother, welcoming her children home. Her famous poem, “The New Colossus,” is still there on the statue’s pedestal, sharing its message of welcome with the world.
Praise for What Emma Wrote: The Woman Behind the Words on the Statue of Liberty
PreS-Gr 2–“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning,” may be one of the most identifiable quotes in United States history, but few may know about the skilled author behind those words. Emma Lazarus is presented as a writer whose devotion to language matures into moral clarity and civic purpose. From the outset, Lazarus’s immersion in books is not only a pastime but helps form her creative interests. Disciplined reading and writing become the means through which she claims identity. In developing her identity, Lazarus turns to language as deliberate moral expression. Language shapes how she sees the world and how she understands her responsibility within it. Set against 19th-century immigration and rising antisemitism, the narrative shows how historical pressures sharpened her sense of agency. When Lazarus encounters Jewish refugees seeking safety, her poetry expands in scope. Verse becomes public address; “The New Colossus” stands as literary achievement and as a principled declaration, asserting belonging through artful intention. Tarcan’s illustrations mirror this movement from interior reflection to outward voice with warm earthy tones and clean lines that ground the setting historically, while Lazarus’s steady gaze signals resolve.“Ann Diament Koffsky has written another winning picture book biography This beautiful and important story will be enjoyed by grade school children and adults. Recommended for all libraries.” -Associaton of Jewish Libraries, Esther Schnaidman, Librarian and Teacher
In this concise, accessible biography, Emma emerges as a thoughtful activist and writer who used her words to effect real change. Taran’s stylish, elegant illustrations complement Koffsky’s prose. Author and illustrator draw an intriguing parallel between an impoverished mother Emma encounters on Wards Island and Emma’s conception of the Statue of Liberty: If the statue could talk, Emma thinks, “she would be like a mother, welcoming her children home”—insightful commentary that should provoke discussion among readers.
An eye-opening look at a writer who spoke truth to power. -Kirkus Reviews
“…beautifully crafted picture book that celebrates courage, creativity, and the power of words. Koffsky creates a deeply moving portrait of a girl who loved language and grew into a woman determined to use her voice to make a difference. –Judith Magazine
“This is a must read for students! Understanding why Emma wrote The Colossus can help students understand the plight of immigrants. This Picturebook Biography also fits in a poetry unit.”-EdTechEase
“The text is approachable and meaningful, and will teach young readers not only about Emma Lazarus but also about some of the immigrants who came to America over a century ago. This would be the perfect book for teachers…”-Patricia A Sarles, The Jewish Press
This gorgeous and lyrically written nonfiction picture book biography does a great job of giving us a glimpse into the amazing, caring, and determined writer and poet, Emma Lazarus, and her connection to the statue.-Maria Marshall, PB Buzz
“… an inspiring story about how one person can make a difference for so many others simply by caring and deciding to do something.” –Mother Daughter Book Club
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