New York's Bravest

New York's Bravest by Mary Pope Osborne is a story about Mose Humphrey.  Who is Mose Humphrey?  He is America's first urban folk hero.

During the late 1800's NYC was hit with a string of fires in its' wooden buildings and wharves.  The story of Mose, a fictional character, developed from the heroic efforts of all the volunteer firefighters.

As the story goes, Mose was larger than life.  He was always the first to a fire and could swim the Hudson in two strokes.  Mose always saved the day.  However, one day Mose met a fire that burned a hotel to ashes.  After that fire, Mose was never seen again.  Rumors flew about Moses whereabouts.  Was he in Dakota?  Mining in California?  No.  Mose never left NYC.  His spirit still lives inside all firefighters.

Mose represents courage and strength of firefighters throughout history. Mary Pope Osborne dedicated her story about Mose to the 343 New York City firefighters who gave their lives to saves other on 9/11. Every time I read this story, I get choked up.  Some books, even though meant for children, impact adults on a different level.  For me, this is one of those stories!

New York's Bravest helps build background knowledge.  Children are able to make text-to-self and text-to-world connections when reading this book.

Questions to start a conversation with your child before reading the story:

• Discuss the concept of a tall-tale.  Who are some of your favorite tall-tale characters?  What traits do they have in common?  
• What do you think it means to be brave? 
• Can you think of a time when you were brave?

Questions to start a conversation during reading.

• As you read, look for traits that make Mose larger than life.  
• Read to "they grew silent" and ask your child:  Where do you think Mose might be?
• Read to "Truth is, Mose is right here" and ask your child: What do you think the old- timer means?  

Questions to start a conversation with your child after reading the story:

• What did Mose do that was brave?  
• How are firefighters today like Mose?  How are they different?
• Go back and read the Historical Note and Dedication.    Why do you think Mary Pope Osborne dedicated this story to the firefighters on 9/11?  How did they show bravery?