Jean Lee Latham Criticism
Jean Lee Latham, an American young adult writer known for her fictionalized biographies, skillfully simplifies complex subjects such as doctors, inventors, and scientists for younger audiences. Her ability to weave detailed research into engaging narratives is notable, as seen in her acclaimed work Carry On, Mr. Bowditch, which won the 1956 Newbery Medal. Latham's background in drama informs her narrative style, emphasizing the suspense in her characters' lives and their perseverance in the face of challenges. This dramatic approach can be traced to her early career as a playwright and drama teacher, where she honed her storytelling skills. Critically, her works often feature male protagonists and appeal to readers interested in technical topics, though some have noted a stilted writing style. Despite this, her stories successfully introduce young readers to historical figures whose achievements and ambitions provide inspiration, as discussed by T. Morris Longstreth and Alice Brooks McGuire. Latham's narrative prowess and commitment to educational storytelling continue to leave a lasting impact on young adult literature.
Contents
-
T. Morris Longstreth
(summary)
In the following essay, T. Morris Longstreth commends Jean Lee Latham's "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch" for its detailed depiction of early 19th-century seamanship and the Bowditch household, praising her successful portrayal of Nathaniel Bowditch's genius, her subtle advocacy for education, and her insightful character development.
-
Alice Brooks McGuire
(summary)
In the following essay, Alice Brooks McGuire commends Jean Lee Latham for her adept storytelling in works like "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch" and "Trail Blazer of the Seas," highlighting her ability to transform complex technical material into engaging narratives that captivate young audiences while remaining informative.
-
Ellen Lewis Buell
(summary)
In the following essay, Ellen Lewis Buell praises Jean Lee Latham for her ability to vividly animate historical figures and provide a profound understanding of the challenges faced during the establishment of the Jamestown colony.
-
Irving T. Marsh
(summary)
In the following essay, Irving T. Marsh commends Jean Lee Latham's "This Dear-Bought Land" for its dramatic portrayal of Captain John Smith, exploring his complex character through the evolving admiration of David Warren, and offers creative explanations for Smith's earlier silence on significant events.
-
Margaret Warren Brown
(summary)
In the following essay, Margaret Warren Brown praises Young Man in a Hurry by Jean Lee Latham for its powerful writing and ability to create drama and suspense, particularly highlighting the thrilling climax of successfully laying the transatlantic cable.
-
Howard Boston
(summary)
In the following essay, Howard Boston argues that Jean Lee Latham's fictionalized biography vividly revives the life of Cyrus W. Field, particularly his pivotal role in creating the Atlantic Cable, highlighting the clarity and excitement with which she depicts his technical achievements and personal integrity.
-
Virginia Haviland
(summary)
In the following essay, Virginia Haviland critiques Jean Lee Latham's biography Drake, the Man They Called a Pirate for its conversational style that, while clear in detailing Drake's maritime prowess and historical context, lacks the period flavor usually conveyed through authentic speech and language.
-
Learned T. Bulman
(summary)
In the following essay, Learned T. Bulman commends Jean Lee Latham for her engaging and informative biographical fiction about John Ericsson, highlighting her ability to bring historical figures to life despite the omission of detailed chronology.
-
Margaret Sherwood Libby
(summary)
The critic contrasts Jean Lee Latham's works, suggesting "Man of the Monitor" lacks the vividness of "Carry On, Mr. Bowditch" due to its homogeneous dialogue, but praises "Retreat to Glory" for its realistic and compelling portrayal of Sam Houston's adventures as an exciting narrative based on historical events.
-
Lon Tinkle
(summary)
In the following essay, Lon Tinkle praises Jean Lee Latham's ability to portray Sam Houston as a believable and complex hero in "Retreat to Glory: The Story of Sam Houston," highlighting her effective narrative pace and insightful character depiction that interweaves his personal courage and honor with pivotal historical events.
-
Peter C. Lawrence
(summary)
In the following essay, Peter C. Lawrence commends Jean Lee Latham's Retreat to Glory, the Story of Sam Houston for its portrayal of Houston as both a patriot and a human being, effectively integrating historical contexts with character study to provide a relatable and inspiring narrative for young readers.
-
Raymond W. Barber
(summary)
In the following essay, the critic evaluates "Anchors Aweigh: the Story of David Glasgow Farragut" as offering an engaging portrayal of the U.S. Navy's history but criticizes its fictionalized depiction of Farragut for lacking depth and failing to present him as a credible human figure.
-
Ivan Sandrof
(summary)
In the following review, the critic acknowledges Jean Lee Latham's skillful narrative and swift pacing in "Anchors Aweigh," while noting a tendency to minimize significant events such as the death of young Farragut's mother.
-
Nancy Byers
(summary)
In the following essay, Nancy Byers critiques Jean Lee Latham's work for its focus on American perspectives and highlights its readability and educational value for American students, while noting its summary treatment of the Columbia River Treaty of 1964.
-
Mary M. Burns
(summary)
In the following essay, Mary M. Burns lauds Jean Lee Latham's portrayal of James Cook in Far Voyager: The Story of James Cook, emphasizing the narrative's adventurous pace, historical context, and the depiction of Cook as a meticulous scientist and visionary, while also addressing the personal costs of his genius.
-
Learned T. Bulman
(summary)
In the following essay, Learned T. Bulman commends Jean Lee Latham's "Carry on, Mr. Bowditch" for its ability to vividly bring an obscure historical figure to life, appealing to young readers with its engaging storytelling, in contrast to other Newbery winners that prioritize literary beauty over narrative appeal.