Reviews: (by author)

Christensen, Bonnie. Woody Guthrie, Poet of the People. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2001. $16.95. ISBN 0-375-81113-3. 30pp.

Woody Guthrie, Poet of the People is a great insight into the life of Americans during the Great Depression and the 1940's.   Woody Guthrie, a folk musician, wrote many songs but his most popular and remembered is "This Land Is Your Land," a song that today is sung during rallies for peace, justice or environmental issues.   The book depicts a young boy who grew up during one of the toughest times in American history.   Through it all Woody Guthrie wrote folk songs and told stories to help others find hope.   Throughout the years Woody traveled and heard many tales of the injustices that occurred to the migrant workers.   He thus began to take an active role in helping them unite.  

Bonnie Christensen's book provides insightfulness toward the hardships that migrants and labor workers faced that is unique and heart felt.   I would recommend this book not only to children but also to those that haven't heard of Woody Guthrie and are interested in the American history.

Reviewed by Alida Allison

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