Jella Lepman and Her Library of Dreams
illustrations by
on Goodreads (30)
What’s inside...
Jella Lepman and Her Library of Dreams is an inspiring true story written by Katherine Paterson about Jella Lepman, a visionary woman who used children’s books to heal post-WWII Germany's children. After the war, Lepman established the International Youth Library and the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), amassing a collection that grew to over 600,000 items. The book reflects on the transformative power of books and libraries, exploring Lepman’s relentless pursuit to provide joy and peace to children through literature. This biography highlights her impact on young lives and the continuing efforts of IBBY in fostering global cooperation and bringing books to children. It is perfect for educators, librarians, and anyone interested in children's literature and its role in healing and community building.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think inspired Jella Lepman to create a library for children after World War II?
How do you believe a library can help bring people together or help them understand each other?
Why do you think books and stories are important during difficult times?
Can you think of a book that has been special to you and why?
How can we help share the joy of reading with others in our community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on the significance of libraries and sharing stories.
Discuss the historical context of the story briefly to give your child a clearer understanding of the setting and motivations of Jella Lepman.
Connect themes from the book to current events or personal experiences to make the conversation more relatable and impactful.
Ask your child to think about a book that has impacted them and encourage them to share that story with someone else.
Reinforce the idea of empathy and understanding through the sharing of books and stories, highlighting how this can lead to meaningful connections.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of dreams and vision
Explanation: Jella Lepman, through her dedication to creating a library for children amidst the ruins of post-war Germany, demonstrates the power of having a vision and the perseverance to realize it.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to set meaningful goals and work persistently towards achieving them, understanding that positive change starts with a dream.
Example Lesson: Unity and peace through shared stories
Explanation: The story highlights how Jella’s library project brought together people and books from across the world, promoting unity and cultural understanding via shared stories.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of diversity and mutual respect, encouraging them to engage with peers from different backgrounds and cultures through shared stories and experiences.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Jella Lepman's endeavors to build a library in a devastated, post-war environment illustrates resilience and overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to remain determined and optimistic despite challenges or setbacks in their own lives, using creative problem-solving and persistence.
Example Lesson: The educational power of books
Explanation: The book portrays the library as a key tool in the education and emotional healing of post-war children, showing how books can expand horizons and provide hope.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to embrace reading as a source of learning, imagination, and solace, fostering a lifelong love for books.