The Village

Blacksmith
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
illustrated by G. Brian Karas

Longfellow’s timeless poem is enhanced by

thoughtful and contemporary art in this modern
retelling of the understated and tender tale
of a humble craftsman.

Use The Village Blacksmith in your

classroom to introduce the classic poem and
to discuss the trade of blacksmithing.
HC: 978-1-5362-0443-8
• TEACHER TIPS The Village Blacksmith

• Explain to students that the poem “The Village

Blacksmith” was originally published in 1840. Ask
students why they think the author chose to illustrate
the book in the present day.

• Choose another old poem and have students bring it

into the present with contemporary illustrations.

• Read and discuss the information about

blacksmiths and their tools at the back of the
book. Explain the meaning of “tools of the trade”
and discuss why blacksmiths have been so
important over the years.

Illustrations © 2020 by G. Brian Karas