Made By Hand: A Crafts Sampler

Children will be intrigued to learn of the origins of 14 one-of-a-kind objects in 13 stories told on double-page spreads. Crafts from Northern and Eastern states during the 1800s are described in a blend of facts and historical fiction. In a forward from the author, readers are encouraged to consider the historical impacts of these hand-crafted objects and to try crafting projects of their own. Each story is lavishly illustrated and includes insets with short poems which capture the sounds and actions of the makers in their crafting. Some creations were practical, such as the butter churn, pie crimper, and weather vane, while others were decorative, like the samplers, bandolier bags, and candle box. Where available the author includes historical documentation of the time, place, and/or artisan for certain items. In a concluding note, Schaeferexplains her process of researching and writing this book. The final two pages contain color photographs of the objects as well as historical documentation, their source or location, and their size. Children exploring this period in American history will be fascinated with the material and find much for discussion in classrooms.