Joe Magarac and His USA Citizen Papers facts for kids
First edition
|
|
| Author | Irwin Shapiro (1911–1981) |
|---|---|
| Cover artist | James Daugherty |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Julian Messner, Inc. |
|
Publication date
|
1948 |
| Media type | Print (hardback) |
| Pages | 58 pp |
| OCLC | 1417159 |
Joe Magarac and His USA Citizen Papers is an exciting children's novel written by American author Irwin Shapiro. It was published in 1948. The story takes place in the busy steel-making area of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This book tells the tale of Joe Magarac, a strong and legendary steelworker.
The main adventure begins when a mill boss tells Joe that he needs $1,000 to get his American citizenship papers. These papers are important documents that show someone is an official citizen of a country. Joe works incredibly hard to earn the money. However, things get complicated when a U.S. Congressman tells Joe to go back to the "Old Country" where he came from. This makes Joe very angry because he has worked so hard and wants to be an American citizen.
Contents
The Story of Joe Magarac
Joe Magarac is a folk hero, a bit like Paul Bunyan, but for steelworkers. He is known for his incredible strength and his dedication to his work in the steel mills. In this story, Joe faces a challenge that many immigrants faced: becoming a citizen of a new country.
Earning Citizenship
To become an American citizen, Joe needs to get official papers. The cost for these papers is $1,000, which was a lot of money in 1948. Joe is determined to earn it. He works tirelessly, showing off his amazing strength in the steel mill. He hopes that by earning the money, he will prove his worth and become a full citizen of the United States.
A Big Disappointment
After all his hard work, Joe meets a U.S. Congressman. A Congressman is a person elected by people to represent them in the United States government. This Congressman tells Joe that he should go back to his home country. This unfair comment makes Joe furious. He feels that his hard work and desire to be an American citizen are not being recognized.
Joe's Powerful Protest
Joe's anger builds up. He shows his immense strength by moving large objects and climbing structures. In a powerful display of frustration, he even scales the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. This action is a symbolic protest against the unfair treatment he received. It shows how much he wants to belong and be accepted as an American. His actions are meant to highlight the unfairness he feels, much like a giant showing their feelings.
About the Author
Irwin Shapiro (1911–1981) was an American writer, especially known for his children's books. He often wrote stories that featured folk heroes and American legends. "Joe Magarac and His USA Citizen Papers" is one example of his work that explores themes of hard work, fairness, and belonging.
