Slavery

April 28, 2021

All Different Now ~ Angela Johnson

All Different Now

Written by Angela Johnson

Illustrated by E.B. Lewis

Juneteenth, commemorated on June 19th, is the celebration of the emancipation of slaves. This book shares the response of and the jubilation felt as a young girl’s family receives news that they are free. They are certain that everything is “all different now.” The day in 1865 began with them working as slaves in a Texas cotton field, but it ended in a celebration of their freedom.

I especially enjoyed reading the author and illustrator notes included in the book. To learn more about Juneteenth, there is also a page included with important, pertinent dates and an explanation of the celebration then and now. Plus, there is a list of key terms and definitions. Read more >>

Buy the Book: All Different Now

Originally posted on April 28, 2021.

March 30, 2021

Freedom’s a-Callin Me ~ Ntozake Shange

Freedom’s a-Callin Me

Written by Ntozake Shange

Illustrated by Rod Brown

This collection of poetry by Ntozake Shange expresses the hardships of slavery and the determination of seeking freedom. There are some graphic lines/stanzas referring to death and killing. There is also an image that shows slaves being whipped. Because this book depicts some of the horrid experiences and brutal realities of slavery, I believe that one should exercise caution with reading this book to younger audiences. Read more >>

Buy the Book: Freedom’s a-Callin Me

Originally posted on March 30. 2021.

March 4, 2021

Lillian’s Right to Vote ~ Jonah Winter

Lillian’s Right to Vote

Written by Jonah Winter

Illustrated by Shane W. Evans

This book tells the story of a 100 year old woman recalling events in her life and her family’s lives that lead to her having the right to vote. This book is a celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Please note that there is a page showing the backside of an unclothed male slave as well as a picture of a burning cross. Read more >>

Buy the Book: Lillian’s Right to Vote

Originally posted on March 4, 2021.

February 26, 2021

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read ~ Rita Lorraine Hubbard

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read

Written by Rita Lorraine Hubbard

Illustrated by Oge Mora

You are never too old to learn to read. Mary Walker is the ultimate example of this truth! Mary Walker learned to read at the age of 116! This book tells of the remarkable life of this woman who was officially declared “the nation’s oldest student.” Read more >>

Buy the Book: The Oldest Student

Originally posted on February 26, 2021.

February 24, 2021

Before She Was Harriet ~ Lesa Cline-Ransome

Before She Was Harriet

Written by Lesa Cline-Ransome

Illustrated by James E. Ransome

Many know the name Harriet Tubman. But, do you know of General Tubman, Moses, Minty or Araminta? Each of these names represent the many roles of the heroine, Harriet Tubman. She was a suffragist, a Union spy, a nurse, a conductor on the Underground Railroad and so much more! In poetic style, this book pays tribute to the many heroic roles she had throughout her life. Read more >>

Buy the Book: Before She Was Harriet

Originally posted on February 24, 2021.

February 21, 2021

Fifty Cents and a Dream: Young Booker T. Washington ~ Jabari Asim

Fifty Cents and a Dream: Young Booker T. Washington

Written by Jabari Asim

Illustrated by Bryan Collier

This book reveals Book T. Washington’s sheer determination and drive to better himself. From his desire to read as a young slave to his 500 mile journey mostly on foot to travel to Hampton Institute as a young man to pursue his dream with only a mere 50 cents in his pocket. From working as the janitor to help pay the school tuition to ultimately establishing his own educational institute. The end of the book provides interesting information about more of the details of Washington’s life. It notes that he was the first African American to be presented with an honorary degree from Harvard University. I had no idea! Read more >>

Buy the Book: Fifty Cents and a Dream

Originally posted on February 21, 2021.