What Emma Wrote: The Woman Behind the Words on the Statue of Liberty

With its poetic message of welcome, the Statue of Liberty holds an important and beloved place in American history. In time for anniversary of our nation's founding, this biography of the woman who wrote the now-famous poem on its pedestal has deep relevance for readers today.

Emma loved stories, loved writing poetry, and was curious about the world. When she met poor immigrants arriving in New York City, she knew she had to help. And when she was asked to write a poem about the Statue of Liberty, she imagined Lady Liberty as a mother, welcoming her children home. Her famous poem, “The New Colossus,” is still there on the statue’s pedestal, sharing its message of welcome with the world.