Module 12: Home on the Range: John A. Lomax and His Cowboy Songs by Deborah Hopkins

Citation:

Hopkinson,D. (2009). Home on the range: John A. Lomax and his cowboy songs. New York, N.Y.: G.P. Putnam’s Sons.

Summary: This is the biography of John A. Lomax and his journey to acquire many of America’s folk songs. As a child he sang and wrote down songs. As an adult he went to college and became a teacher. One project inspired him to go out into the world and record and write down folk song and cowboy songs. Although he ran into some obstacles he was able to find many songs from America’s history. He went on to travel with his son and talk to people about the songs and their history.

My Opinion: I felt that this book was somewhat interesting. It teaches about following your dreams and your heart. As a child these songs interested him and as an adult he ended up searching for people who knew folksongs. I found this book to lack some excitement but easy to follow. I am not sure if this book would be incredibly popular but would make a good read aloud.

Reviews:

Hartshorn, J. (2009, May/June). [Review of the book Home on the range: John A. Lomax and his cowboy songs]. Library Media Connection via Titlewave. Retrieved by http://titlewave.com/search?SID=1a8b654d390d883e34603e65fba48074

Library Media Connection (May/June 2009) Deborah Hopkinson presents the amazing story of John A. Lomax, the first man to popularize great American folk songs such as “Home on the Range.” As a boy in Texas, he listened to the cowboys, songs and wrote each one down. Years later, he convinced cowboys and Gypsies to sing for him and soon he had hundreds of songs preserved for generations to come. A part of American history is brought to life through Hopkinson’s lively narrative with song excerpts throughout, and Schindler’s gorgeous art brings the West alive. This is a good addition for a public library, but only for schools where it fits the curriculum. Additional Selection. Jennifer L. Hartshorn, Head of Children’s Services, Merrimack (New Hampshire) Public Library Uses for the library: When discussing biographies this would make good read aloud to younger students who were interested in music and continuing their dreams. I would read this book and then have the students feel out a timeline on the life and history of John A. Lomax