Lotta Crabtree: Gold Rush Fairy Star - Tapa dura

"My secret, I think, to all success is naturalness and sincerity. If a girl is going to truly succeed in the world she must be her own self."-Lotta Crabtree During the height of the California Gold Rush, child performers called Fairy Stars kept the miners entertained. The children would dance, sing, and act to raise spirits and money. Lotta Crabtree was the brightest of the Fairy Stars! The precocious girl won hearts across the world with her extraordinary talent for comedy and grew to be one of the wealthiest and most beloved American entertainers of the late 19th century. In this unique biography for young readers, follow Lotta's early years, her struggle to support her family, her spectacular journey to fame, and her generous contributions that are still changing lives today. Author Lois V. Harris is an award-winning storyteller. She graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in English and Creative Writing. Harris is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and a writing instructor at Skagit Valley College. She has dedicated her writing career to bringing forth stories about creative people that inspire children to follow their dreams. She first encountered Lotta's story after seeing the fountain the star had donated to San Francisco.

Called "The Nation's Darling," Lotta Crabtree captured the hearts of all who saw her perform. Born in New York in 1847, Lotta and her family followed her father, seeking his fortune in the Gold Rush, to California. When her father's plans didn't pan out, Lotta went to work to support her family, singing and dancing for miners. A talented, pretty, and engaging child, she soon became "The San Francisco Favorite." She was a household name by age twenty. Lotta went on to tour the United States with her own theatrical company and perform in London, England. As the first female comic, she changed the way women were seen on stage and became a role model for future generations of female performers.

Described as "mischievous, unpredictable, and impulsive," the "eternal child" Lotta Crabtree retired in 1892 at the age of forty-five as the richest actress in America. She was a respected philanthropist during her lifetime, and her generosity continues to provide grants to those in need through the foundations she established. Gold Rush Fairy Star Lotta Crabtree is brought to life in this informative and inspirational biography for middle readers from talented author Lois V. Harris.