Dr. Matthew Meehan’s New Children’s Book Aims to Inspire
When browsing through children’s literature these days, it’s common to find stories that lack substance, uninspired illustrations, and little to offer in terms of morals. Fortunately, Dr. Matthew Meehan’s books are a refreshing contrast.
“I want American families to have something beautiful and lasting,” he stated. “I hope that their resourceful love for God, country, and family will be aided, so to speak, by this book.”
In addition to serving as an associate dean and professor at Hillsdale College in Washington, DC, Dr. Meehan has garnered attention as a children’s author. His works are the culmination of years of effort, culminating in books that resonate profoundly with readers.
It’s perhaps not surprising that he was awarded one of only five 2025 Innovation Awards from the Heritage Foundation this summer. This award supports “innovative projects that prepare Americans to celebrate our nation’s 500th anniversary by advancing our nation’s founding ideals, educating our people, and inspiring patriotism.”
Dr. Meehan’s latest project, funded by a NEH subsidy, is a collection of fables tentatively titled “The American Family’s Book of Fables.” This book, which appeals to all ages, not solely children, delves into the Declaration of Independence, offering interpretations through various fables, dialogues, and poems that explore American history, culture, and wildlife.
This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Meehan about his upcoming book and the evolution of American children’s literature.
Faye Root: To start, could you share a bit about your background and what drew you to writing for children and families?
Matthew Meehan: I’ve been passionate about creative writing since childhood. I dabbled in poetry and short stories, drawing and doodling. After college, I had a few poetry and story publications.
But I’ve also studied numerous renowned writers. They understood the importance of effective communication, constantly honing their rhetoric. Figures like Cicero, Seneca, and others influenced my own journey. I practiced various types of writing each night after work, writing poems about imaginary creatures and crafting fables inspired by Socratic styles. My first children’s book, “Dr. Meehan’s Interesting Mythical Mammals,” was born out of these experiences.
I completed my master’s in English and pursued a Ph.D. in literature. I soon realized that perhaps children’s literature was a genre that allowed for a different kind of creativity. Then, as I started my own family, I grew frustrated with the direction of children’s literature.
FR: I completely understand. Congratulations on receiving the Heritage Foundation Innovation Award! Can you elaborate on your upcoming collection of fables?
MM: This upcoming book marks the semi-quincentenary—and aims to rekindle interest in Western traditions and American values. It represents folklore and tradition meant to communicate what it means to be American.
The book is divided into 13 sections, each aligning with parts of the Declaration of Independence. Each section will have three subsections, catering to toddlers, intermediate readers, and older children, offering relevant explanations along the way. Additionally, each section showcases different ecological regions in the U.S.
It’s more than just a celebration; it reflects the people, stories, wildlife, and landscapes that define our nation.
The story follows a humorous character, Hugh Manatee, who journeys from the Everglades, transporting his substantial form across the country using modern American technology.
I envisioned a book suitable for the whole family, to be cherished for generations. My hope is that it becomes a lasting heirloom for American families as we approach the 500th anniversary.
FR: Can you discuss the significance of fables in American history and how early American leaders used them?
MM: They were deeply ingrained in the culture. The tradition of fables goes back to Solomon in the Old Testament, rooted in the Judeo-Christian and Greco-Roman traditions. The founding generation understood the importance of fables as part of a self-governing democracy.
For example, many Founding Fathers were well-versed in classical works and medieval bestiaries, which influenced their thinking. It’s fascinating how these traditions can be revitalized in America.
FR: Your book “Mr. Meehan’s Interesting Mythical Mammals” is considered post-religious. Can you clarify what an abecedarian is?
MM: An “abecedarian” simply refers to books structured around the alphabet. Each letter is followed by a poem or story—an homage to Chaucer’s work. I enjoyed the straightforward structure, creating engaging alliterations for children, and intertwining deeper meanings for adults.
For this new book, I’ve structured it more clearly, distinguishing sections for different age groups.
FR: In your piece “Reclaiming America’s Founding Imagination, you mention how children’s imaginations were less spoiled in earlier times. Can you elaborate on that?
MM: Take “Grimm’s Fairy Tales,” for instance. They deal with vivid, sometimes dark themes. Kids back then faced real struggles, which nudged them to pay attention. I won’t delve into gruesome territory, but there are certainly serious themes in my book, especially in the older sections. The historical reality includes notable hardships, and it’s important for kids to understand these elements.
While kindness and caution are essential, children must be introduced to difficult realities. The current state of children’s literature often lacks depth and serious themes, potentially because it’s overly gentle. My goal is to challenge children—encouraging them to explore deeper narratives in entertaining ways, combining humor and moral messages.
FR: You emphasize resourcefulness and wisdom. Why is wit essential, and how did it shape America’s early identity?
MM: Resourcefulness embodies wit, enabling people to see situations from varied perspectives. Wit brings joy and reflects mental agility. Aristotle even discusses wit as part of prudence—the ability to navigate problems skillfully.
Wit, in its essence, connects intellect and creativity, fostering innovation. It’s a trait necessary to drive progress and bind our founding principles together—a quality our early leaders recognized and aimed to instill in society.
FR: Can you describe the illustrations in your upcoming book?
MM: Indeed, I am collaborating with John Foley, a classically trained artist whose work beautifully marries realism with Impressionism. His use of light enhances the character of the pieces.
Foley will provide a mix of different art styles, including oil paintings and various illustrations throughout the book, resulting in a captivating hardcover heirloom. I want to offer families something enduring and beautiful—a tool for nurturing love for God, country, and family.
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“The American Family’s Book of Fables” is set to release in May 2026, available at retailers nationwide. Following its publication, Dr. Meehan plans a national book tour leading up to the July 4th Half-500th Anniversary Celebration. For further updates, check his website.
Be sure to explore Dr. Meehan’s other acclaimed children’s books, including Mr. Meehan’s Slightly Interesting Mythical Mammals and Handsome Little Cygnet.
This interview has been edited for clarity.
