The Sandburg Treasury

Book excerpt: This illustrated anthology features the celebrated poet’s complete works for children—with an introduction by his wife, Paula Sandburg. As a young father of two daughters, Carl Sandburg noticed that children’s literature was still stuck in the traditions of European folklore, centered on princes, princesses and peasants. He wanted to create stories that spoke more directly to American children and their way of life. His first book for children, Rootabaga Stories, explore farms, trains and other typical locales as the clever characters discover the magic of the Midwest. This volume includes all five of Carl Sandburg’s books for young readers: Rootabaga Stories, Early Moon, Wind Song, Prairie-Town Boy, and Abe Lincoln Grows Up.