← Back to search
Cover of When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer

When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer

Walt Whitman (2004-11-01)

Subgenre
Age groupChildren 5-8
Content ratingG
Pages (Quick Read (<250))
Setting
CSM age5

Content levels

ViolenceNone
Sexual contentNone
LanguageNone

Trigger warnings

Not yet tagged

Protagonist archetypes

Coming-of-Age Protagonist

Synopsis

Leave time for wonder. Walt Whitman's "When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer" is an enduring celebration of the imagination. Here, Whitman's wise words are beautifully recast by New York Times #1 best-selling illustrator Loren Long to tell the story of a boy's fascination with the heavens. Toy rocket in hand, the boy finds himself in a crowded, stuffy lecture hall. At first he is amazed by the charts and the figures. But when he finds himself overwhelmed by the pontifications of an academic, he retreats to the great outdoors and does something as universal as the stars themselves... he dreams.

Is When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 5 and up.

This gentle picture book celebrates imagination and experiential learning over rote academics. No content concerns—perfect for young dreamers.

What to know going in

This book has no graphic violence, no sexual content, and clean language.

Who'll love this

Kids will love following a boy who leaves a boring classroom to explore the stars and dreams outside.

Tags

Picture BookPoetry AdaptationIllustrated