Dear Mr. Longfellow

Reach for this book when your child expresses a desire for connection or begins to wonder if the authors and public figures they admire are real, approachable people. It is a beautiful choice for the quiet, observant child who finds solace in the written word and may feel a bit lonely in their creative interests. The story explores the real life friendship between the legendary poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and a young girl named Queenie who wrote to him from across the ocean. By showcasing their exchange of letters, the book gently explores themes of intergenerational friendship, the power of mentorship, and the idea that even the most famous people value kindness and personal connection. It is a soothing, historically grounded read for children ages 6 to 10 that validates their curiosity and encourages them to share their own voices with the world.