Papa’s Mark ~ Gwendolyn Battle-Lavert

Papa’s Mark

Written by Gwendolyn Battle-Lavert

Illustrated by Colin Bootman

Election day is coming up and Simms’ father (along with the other African American men in the southern county) will be able to vote for the first time. Determined, Simms teaches his father to sign his name so that on Election Day he can enter the courthouse and cast his vote with his head held high! Papa no longer had to mark an X for his name, but could actually sign his very own name!

The Author’s Note provides more insightful, historical information about this time after the Civil War when descendants of freed slaves faced hurdles in attaining their right to vote. Read more >>

Buy the Book: Papa’s Mark

Originally posted on March 17, 2021.