Longfellow has long been a favorite of homeschool moms. Because of the concrete storytelling element, his poems make an easy introduction to poetry. The Children’s Own Longfellow is an illustrated free public domain version containing the following favorites:
- “The Wreck of the Hesperus.”
- “The Village Blacksmith.”
- “Paul Revere’s Ride.”
- Portions of Evangeline and Hiawatha.
Longfellow has been fitly called the children’s poet. Many of his poems have from their very first appearance been favorites with youthful readers, and for many thousands of children he is the poet best beloved. It has been, therefore, the hope of the publishers that this volume, containing eight of the most popular of these poems, illustrated in color by some of the best known American artists of the present day, will find a ready welcome at the hands of young folks and their parents.
Our favorite book of Longfellow remains the illustrated Poetry for Young People version below; however, The Children’s Own Longfellow is the best free version we have run across.
Free eBook
Additional Resources
“Henry Wadsworth Longfellow”
Section from The Child’s Book of American Biography. Read entire review.
Poetry for Young People: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
While we have enjoyed this illustrated series as an introduction to various poets — Longfellow being a favorite — others might object to the sometimes-abridged versions of some poems appearing inside. The choice, as always, is yours!
Free History Studies: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Our own series includes dozens of resources for a fuller study.
Online Poetry Anthology
Includes five Longfellow selections.
Keep Reading
Longfellow: “The Birds of Killingworth”
It was the season, when through all the land The merle and mavis build, and building sing…. Poetry study.
100 Best Books for Children ~ Longfellow
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie is Number 74 on The Hundred Best Books for Children.
Free Music Studies: Child’s Own Book of Great Musicians
The Child’s Own Book of Great Musicians series is a wonderful introduction to the great composers. 13 free lessons + review.