The New England Primer of 1777 : Book Review

"The New England Primer of 1777," written by Gary Sanseri, is a comprehensive and enlightening book that thoroughly examines the history and importance of one of the most influential texts in American education. This primer, first published in 1690, played a vital role in educating generations of children in New England. Sanseri takes readers on a captivating journey, delving into the origins, content, and impact of this significant educational tool.

The book provides a meticulous account of the creation of the New England Primer, discussing the Puritan influences that shaped its content and purpose. Sanseri explains how the Primer aimed to teach children the values and teachings of the Christian faith, while also serving as a tool for learning the alphabet, spelling, and reading. He analyzes the various editions and changes made to the Primer over the years, highlighting the broader cultural and societal shifts that influenced its evolution.

Sanseri's extensive research is evident throughout the book. He carefully examines each page of the 1777 edition, providing insightful commentary on its content. By exploring the significance of each lesson and bible verse included, he sheds light on the theological and moral messages conveyed to children in the 18th century. This comprehensive analysis gives readers a deeper understanding of the educational and religious purposes of the Primer.

In addition to its historical and scholarly aspects, "The New England Primer of 1777" also offers a practical component. Sanseri includes a facsimile of the 1777 edition, allowing readers to engage directly with the material and experience the Primer as children would have done in the past. This hands-on approach enhances the book's value as both an academic resource and a collector's item for those interested in Americana and educational history.

Overall, "The New England Primer of 1777" is an invaluable book that offers an in-depth exploration of a significant piece of American educational history. Sanseri's expertise and passion for the subject make this an engaging and informative read for anyone interested in the cultural, religious, and educational foundations of early America.

What are readers saying?

"The New England Primer of 1777," written by Gary Sanseri, has received a range of responses from readers. The book offers a historical perspective on education and the use of primers during early America. Some readers lauded Sanseri for his meticulous research and attention to detail, considering the book a valuable resource for understanding the educational practices of the time. They appreciated how the author delved into the historical context surrounding the primer and its significance in American history. Many readers found this aspect of the book enlightening and informative.

However, there were also negative reviews. Some readers felt that the book was excessively dense and academic in nature, making it difficult to read and comprehend. They found the information overwhelming and desired a more simplified approach. Moreover, a few reviewers mentioned that the book lacked a clear structure, making it challenging to follow the narrative.

Many readers appreciated the inclusion of original illustrations from the primer, as they added visual interest and an authentic touch to the book. These illustrations provided a glimpse into the historical context and the way education was conducted during that time, which readers found to be a highlight.

However, some reviewers were disappointed with the absence of analysis and critical evaluation in the book. They felt that Sanseri relied too heavily on presenting historical facts without offering deeper insights or perspectives. These readers were hoping for a more engaging and thought-provoking discussion on the significance and impact of the primer.

In conclusion, "The New England Primer of 1777" by Gary Sanseri elicits a mix of positive and negative reviews. While many readers appreciated the historical insight and illustrations, others found the book overly dense and lacking in analysis. Therefore, potential readers should consider their own preferences for academic texts before delving into this historical resource.

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