New White book has a broad appeal
Sue Blechl
Originally published 03:58 p.m., October 12, 2007
Updated 03:58 p.m., October 12, 2007
Emporia’s most well-known citizen comes to life in this engaging book. William Allen White, editor of the Emporia Gazette for almost 50 years, has left a lasting mark on Emporia, on Kansas, and indeed, on America. Until now, most of the biographies of White have been written more for the scholar and the researcher than the general public. Author Bev Buller has created a book that can be enjoyed and appreciated by children, teens and adults. From its cover and opening sections, the reader is drawn into the book. Turning the pages one by one to browse the attractive and enlightening illustrations, photographs, and sidebars, one can’t help getting a true sense of what life was like in Emporia and Kansas in earlier days. With interest piqued by the colorful and charming design of the book, the reader can begin to enjoy the story told through the text, a story of humble beginnings and far-flung adventures and accomplishments, all centered on the small city of Emporia.
Each of the fourteen chapters focuses on an aspect of White’s life. We learn about family, career, adventures, and honors. Buller has skillfully selected details of home and lifestyle, along with personal anecdotes and quotes to showcase the real White family. William Lindsay and Mary Katherine, the White children, play prominent and poignant roles, especially with the tragic death of 16 year old Mary from a riding accident. The author is very effective in choosing White’s words and letting them speak for themselves. There is humor and self-deprecation throughout the book.
“From Emporia” may leave you wanting more. A list of resources for further study (including websites) is included. The public library, the historical museum and the university all have additional books and materials to supplement the basic information included here. Buller begins her book’s introduction: “These days, William Allen White’s name is not often heard outside his home state of Kansas. In his lifetime it was heard around the world.” With the publication of this appealing illustrated biography, White’s interesting life and reputation can be shared with a broad group of people in Kansas and beyond. Well done!
Bev Buller is a teacher and librarian in Newton, Kansas, and is a member of the William Allen White Children’s Book Award Selection Committee. This is her first book.
For further reading:
“Autobiography of William Allen White”
“Home Town News: William Allen White and the Emporia Gazette” by Sally Foreman Griffith
“William Allen White” by E. Jay Jernigan
On the net:
www.emporia.com/waw/index.html
www.kshs.org/portraits/white_william.htm
www.kshs.org/places/white/index.htm
www.journalism.ku.edu/school/waw/index.html
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