M is for Minnesota

M is for Minnesota

There are plenty of alphabet books, but when you read about Paul Bunyan and his blue ox Babe you know you are in Minnesota. These characters are from just one entry in M is for Minnesota, a beautiful children’s book that will both entertain and delight readers of all ages. Author Dori Hillestad Butler has hand-picked the best of the state, from the northern tip (N is for Northwest Angle, the northern-most point in the lower 48 states) to the great Mississippi River.

Illustrator Janice Lee Porter portrays the subject of each letter in original oil paintings, bringing facts and stories to life. From the blazing Hinckley fire to the serenity of a loon on a lake at sunset, Porter’s renderings are filled with rich colors and innovative perspectives. Her style is both thoughtful and charming, appealing to children and adults alike.

This book is a loving tribute to Minnesota. Residents past and present, tourists, educators, and book lovers will relish the opportunity to discover the history, stories, and natural beauty of the Gopher State.

M is for Minnesota

University of Minnesota Press 1998

ISBN: 0816630410

Reviews

“Butler offers lots of information about Minnesota in an alphabetical arrangement from “Agriculture” to “Zoo.” Each letter provides an opportunity to cover another aspect of the state. The author incorporates a fair amount of history and a smattering of geography and ecology among her host of topics.” -School Library Journal

“Learn all about Minnesota, from A to Z, in this fact-packed picture book from the author of W Is for Wisconsin (1998). Each page is devoted to a letter, with accompanying text describing the things that make the Gopher State great: its cities, natural resources, historical events, lore, animals, and people. Did you know that Charles Lindbergh grew up in Little Falls? Or that the first successful open-heart surgery was performed at the University of Minnesota? Porter’s atmospheric images perfectly capture the northern landscape and its inhabitants, and the text is sure to fill young readers with state pride.” -Booklist

Awards

  • Minnesota Book Award (nominee) 1999
  • Northern Minnesota Book Award (nominee) 1999