Purple Mountain Majesties

Written by Barbara Younger

A journey west inspires a timeless anthem of hope and beauty.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 62 ratings

40 pages· 2,180 words· Est. 17 min read-aloud

$16.99Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon.

Bookroo's summary

In 1893, Katharine Lee Bates, a young Wellesley professor, embarks on a transformative journey across America. Invited to teach in Colorado Springs, she traverses the majestic Rockies, where the breathtaking landscapes ignite her creativity. Moved by the nation's vast beauty, Katharine pens verses that evolve into the cherished song "America the Beautiful." Her travels reveal the country's physical splendor and inspire a profound expression of hope. This tale captures Katharine's imagination and idealism, offering a vivid glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history and the enduring power of one woman's vision.

From the publisher

A woman writer gives the United States one of its most beloved songsColorful, lively, and carefully researched, here is a picture book about the trip west that a young Wellesley professor took, which resulted in an expression of hope for America’s spiritual life that has stirred citizens of all ages ever since. In 1893, when she was thirty-four, Katharine Lee Bates was invited to teach summer school in Colorado Springs. Crossing the country, and exploring the Rockies, she was forcefully moved by a realization of the nation’s great physical blessings. “Most glorious scenery I ever beheld”, she wrote after a journey to the top of Pikes Peak. Later that day, she composed four stanzas of verse that eventually became the words of “America the Beautiful”.Capturing the essence of Katharine’s imagination, idealism, and humor, Barbara Younger’s graceful text provides an intriguing glimpse of American history and women’s history. Stacey Schuett’s expansive, heartfelt illustrations, glowing with color, bring readers close to canyon and sky, prairie and mountain.

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