Parks for the People

By Elizabeth Partridge, Becca Stadtlander (Illustrator)

Discover the visionary who transformed America's landscapes into iconic parks.

3.7/5 Goodreads · 124 ratings

40 pages· 2,976 words· Est. 23 min read-aloud

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Bookroo's summary

Frederick Law Olmsted, restless and visionary, found solace in nature and reshaped America with his park designs. From winning the Central Park contest to crafting Yosemite's beauty, Olmsted's legacy as the father of landscape architecture unfolds. How did his passion for nature change the face of a growing nation? Explore the life of the man who brought parks to the people, blending adventure with a dream of accessible green spaces. This biography captures his journey, revealing the challenges and triumphs of a man who refused to sit still.

From the publisher

National Book Award finalist Elizabeth Partridge reveals the life and work of Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of Central Park, the United States Capitol building’s landscape, and more. Nobody could get Frederick Law Olmsted to sit still. He was filled with energy, adventure, and dreams of changing the world. As a boy, he found refuge in the peace and calm of nature, and later as an adult, he dreamed of designing and creating access to parks for a growing and changing America. When New York City held a contest for the best park design for what would become Central Park, Olmsted won and became the father of landscape architecture. He went on to design parks across America, including Yosemite National Park and even the grounds for the United States Capitol. This scenic biography is lavishly illustrated by Becca Stadtlander, and National Book Award finalist Elizabeth Partridge brings her renowned lyricism and meticulous research to the visionary who brought parks to the people.

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