Big, Bold, Adventurous Life of Lavinia Warren

2019 Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People ListLavinia Warren never let her height or the lack of it prevent her from leading a full and adventurous life. Although she never grew more than three feet tall, she became a beloved teacher, a world traveler, an entertainer and the friend of many powerful figures. Lavinia was teaching at a local school when she heard about an opportunity to travel doing shows as a "e;human curiosity"e; on a Mississippi River boat. Eventually she met P. T. Barnum and worked at his American Museum. It was there that she met Charles Stratton, known to the world as "e;Tom Thumb."e; Their wedding, which took place on February 10, 1863, brought joy to a nation at war. President and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln held a reception for the couple at the White House. During her long life, Lavinia faced several tragedies but always found the strength to go on. Her extraordinary story also provides a unique perspective on one of the most devastating periods in American history: the Civil War and its aftermath. This valuable middle-grade biography includes material on Tom Thumb Weddings, readers' questions, a time line, and other resources.