Johnny Appleseed

Many books telling the story of *Johnny Appleseed* are available for the enjoyment of children & adults. Most illustrators treat this subject as strictly legend. A few emphasize that John Chapman did in fact live and leave his mark on the future mid-west. Imagine how Grant Wood might have colored that landscape! While I like to study the old engravings to help form my picture of this man, children may prefer the 'eccentric-woodsman-with-cookpot-on-head' image. Gwenyth Swain's story is colorfully illustrated by Janice Porter who portrays Chapman as being somewhat oriental. In the past I have liked many of her illustrations, but I feel this 5 star interpretation by the author is not enhanced by these pictures. Swain writes as close to the truth as possible. Sometimes the veil of myth is hard to push aside. Perhaps the illustrator is trying to do just that? The book tells of Chapman's friendship with settlers and Indians; how he 'found' God and spread his beliefs while planting more and more trees. The author helps readers learn about the 'real' Johnny Appleseed, and appreciate the impact of his life's work even though some facts are missing. Yes, we want children to grow up with heroes; they should also be encouraged to look behind and beyond the myths.