An Heirloom Read-Aloud for America’s 250th
Book Review: The American Book of Fables by Matthew Mehan, illustrated by John Folley, published by Sophia Institute Press
The American Book of Fables by Matthew Mehan is an ambitious and imaginative project that creates a distinctly American collection of moral tales, drawing on the spirit of Aesop while celebrating the culture, history, and ideals of the United States of America. Beautifully illustrated by John Folley, this substantial volume is part storybook, part civics lesson, part work of art, and entirely a labor of affection for the American experiment.
A New American Take on the Classic Fable
Mehan replaces the familiar lions, foxes, and crows of traditional fables with creatures native to North America. The Buffaloes, eagles, manatees, and other animals are rooted in American soil while remaining faithful to the timeless purpose of fable: teaching wisdom through stories. Mehan’s fables explore themes of liberty, friendship, courage, gratitude, responsibility, and self-government, inviting readers to consider not only how to live well as individuals but also as citizens of a shared nation.
Stunning Illustrations Make This an Heirloom Book
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its art. John Folley’s illustrations elevate the book from a mere collection of stories to a visual celebration of America. Not only does the book boast a dynamic, colorful cover and many color pictures, but it also features numerous full two-page spreads that seem to spill off the page; no expense seems to have been spared in the production of this book. Folley’s illustrations capture both the grandeur of the nation’s landscapes and the charm of its animal protagonists. This is an heirloom-quality volume that belongs on prominent display.
Why The American Book of Fables Works for the Entire Family
The American Book of Fables is designed for multiple age groups. This isn’t merely a children’s book but a family book. Organized for “Littles,” “Middles,” and “Bigs,” it offers something for every age. Younger children can enjoy the playful rhymes and animal adventures, while older readers will appreciate the moral complexity and historical allusions woven throughout the stories. Adults, meanwhile, may find themselves lingering over quotes from Cicero or Mehan’s literary craftsmanship.
Teaching Virtue, Citizenship, and Cultural Memory Through Story
This book is unabashedly patriotic, and readers will find its celebration of America’s founding principles more pronounced than in contemporary children’s literature. Yet Mehan’s purpose is not political advocacy so much as cultural formation. The book is never overly didactic. Rather, it fosters cultural enrichment through story. Mehan seeks to cultivate the moral imagination—a sense of the virtues, stories, and shared memories that sustain our home and way of life, offering a thoughtful and sincere invitation to engage with America’s ideals and heritage.
A Read-Aloud Worth Returning to for Years
At a time when many children’s books focus on fleeting trends, The American Book of Fables aspires to permanence, challenging us to be good stewards of our current inheritance through an understanding and love for our heritage that built it in the first place. To prepare for the future, first we must look to the past.
The American Book of Fables is designed to be read aloud, displayed on a family bookshelf, and returned to over the years. Rich in literary charm, visual beauty, and moral reflection, it stands as a noteworthy contribution to children’s literature and a fitting tribute to the nation’s approaching 250th anniversary.
Join the Conversation
What are your favorite read-alouds? Your favorite fables? Are you doing anything special in your homeschool to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary? I invite you to join our Homeschool Connections Community or Facebook Group and start a conversation.
