Megan Hoyt

Summary
Carnegie Hall, which opened in 1891, was home to many of the greats! Talents including Duke Ellington and Albert Einstein graced the stage. In 1960 a major real estate tycoon decided they wanted to demolish Carnegie Hall along with many other buildings in the city for a new project. Violinist Isacc Stern will do anything in his power to stop it and save Carnegie Hall.

Review
I really liked this book by Megan Hoyt and illustrated by Katie Hickey. In a beautiful picture book that in child friendly terms explains the story behind the Carnegie Hall we know today. I have walked by Carnegie Hall, but never knew the controversy over knocking it down! I learned a little too!

This book reminds me of Burn: Michael Faradays Candle by Darcy Pattison. It is another narrative nonfiction book about a famous person. Burn is more science focused while this text is the story of saving Carnegie Hall.… (more)

In this telling, a train collision in New York City inspired engineer William J. Wilgus to propose a new fleet of trains that would run on electricity instead of coal and steam, and a Grand Central Terminal where all the lines would meet.

Rich back matter includes more about WJW and GCT, fascinating facts about GCT, a timeline (1871-1998), and sources.

See also: The High Line: A Park to Look Up To; Parks for the People: how Frederick Law Olmstead designed America; and Shapes, Lines, and Light: My grandfather's American journey… (more)