America the Beautiful (2004) by Robert Sabuda is a breathtaking pop-up book that transforms the lyrics of Katharine Lee Bates’ beloved patriotic anthem into a stunning three-dimensional celebration of American landscapes and landmarks. A master of paper engineering, Sabuda crafts intricate, multi-layered pop-ups depicting iconic scenery—from the purple mountain majesties of the Rockies to the golden waves of wheat fields—each spread bursting with vibrant colors and surprising kinetic elements.
The book pairs these visual marvels with excerpts from Bates’ 1893 poem, creating an immersive experience that delights both children and adults. More than just a novelty, this pop-up masterpiece serves as a tactile love letter to America’s natural wonders, showcasing Sabuda’s unparalleled ability to turn paper into poetic motion. A collector’s item for pop-up enthusiasts, it stands as one of the most ambitious works in Sabuda’s celebrated oeuvre.