Title: Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman
Bibliography:
Schroeder, A. (2000). Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman. Penguin Young Readers Group.
ISBN: 978-0140561968
Summary:
In Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman, Alan Schroeder tells the story of an eight year old who rebels against her owner’s commands. This was Harriet Tubman, or Minty, and when we first meet her in the story, she is a house slave who would often run and hide when she was called to do something. One day, after spilling a pitcher of cider while serving, the mistress decides she is too clumsy for the housework and sends her to the fields. While doing work in the fields, Minty's urge to run away and gain freedom grows stronger. Her father teaches her how to survive on her own and in the wild, so one day she can be prepared to run away. One night, after being severely beaten for letting muskrats free from their traps, Minty has the perfect opportunity for escape but is not successful. She cries herself to sleep but vows to be free one day.
Critical Analysis:
Alan Schroeder tells an inspiring story of a young Harriet Tubman. Shroeder opens the story with a message to the readers explaining that while some of the scenes were invented for narrative purposes, the basic facts of the story are true. Harriet Tubman, or Minty, is portrayed as an intelligent, kind and spunky girl who just wishes to be free. Her parents worry that she may end up hurt or be separated from them.
The African American culture is defined in this story through the illustrations and
language used. The dialogue contains just enough dialect and southern phrases to give a sense of the times and the people involved, both White plantation owners and Black slaves. The illustrations add to the characters. Not only do they portray their expressions and actions, but they also show us the physical differences between them. From the color and texture of their hair, to the clothing and hairstyles of all the characters, the illustrations perfectly capture all of this. The contrast between the different areas of the house and the clothes worn, show the differences between slaves and master and mistress.
Although the story of a young Harriet Tubman is told in this book in a stupendous way, if the reader does not read the author’s note at the back of the book or know the contributions of Harriet Tubman as an adult, the ending would be displeasing. In this book, the author, leads the reader to believe that Harriet will escape and survive, yet she chooses not to leave when the time comes, and instead cries herself to sleep. It pretty much leaves the reader hanging and wondering what might have happened to Minty. Because of this, it is crucial that the reader read the author’s note or that this book be paired with other books that explain the events later in her life.
Review Excerpts:
*"Rich with melodrama, suspense, pathos, and, of course, a powerful vision of freedom. This exquisitely crafted book resonates well beyond its few pages."— Kirkus Reviews , starred review
"The blend of fact and fiction is occasionally problematic..., but kids will be moved by the picture of secret childhood rebellion in someone who grew up to lead hundreds to freedom."--- Booklist Reviews
Connections:
Other books by Alan Schroeder:
In Her Hands
Smoky Mountain Rose: An Appalachian Cinderella
Baby Flo: Florence Mills Lights Up the Stage
Related books:
Ida's Witness: The True Story of an Immigrant Girl ISBN: 978-0985398859
The Story of Marie Curie: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers
ISBN: 978-1647391126
Title: Brown Girl Dreaming
Bibliography:
Woodson, J. (2016). Brown Girl Dreaming. Penguin Young Readers Group.
ISBN: 978-0147515827
Summary:
Brown Girl Dreaming is a memoir in verse by Jacqueline Woodson and it covers her childhood, from birth through the start of adolescence. Each titled poem highlights one particular aspect of Jacqueline’s life. Even though each covers a brief period of time, they offer a whole picture of what is happening not just in her life but also around her. The memoir follows her from Ohio to South Carolina to Brooklyn. One day. Jacqueline is inspired to write a poem about the Black revolution, which her uncle Robert has taught her about. She then recites this poem out loud to her class and her teacher tells her that she is a writer. Jacqueline is thrilled about this and she begins to perceive writing. In her view, it's a way to celebrate all the influences in her life and all the events in her life.
Critical Analysis:
I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of poetry but decided to give Brown Girl Dreaming a try. As I read Jacqueline Woodson's reflection of her childhood, I was impressed by her thoughtfulness, authenticity, and transparency.
The free verse memoir Brown Girl Dreaming tells of Jacqueline Woodson's childhood, about growing up between Ohio and South Carolina, and eventually moving to New York. It moves freely between telling a story and relating history. The targeted audience is middle grade but I believe this memoir could be enjoyed by all ages.
As for culture markers, there are plenty in this book. Throughout this time period in history, racial tensions are present, and they are also present in the story. Inequalities and injustices around her become increasingly apparent to her as she grows up, no matter where her family lives. She describes how they are not allowed to do certain things because white families live around that area.
Overall, Brown Girl Dreaming is an excellent book on its own and as an immensely moving memoir.
Review Excerpts:
* “The writer’s passion for stories and storytelling permeates the memoir, explicitly addressed in her early attempts to write books and implicitly conveyed through her sharp images and poignant observations seen through the eyes of a child. Woodson’s ability to listen and glean meaning from what she hears lead to an astute understanding of her surroundings, friends, and family.”— Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW
* “Mesmerizing journey through [Woodson’s] early years. . . . Her perspective on the volatile era in which she grew up is thoughtfully expressed in powerfully effective verse. . . . With exquisite metaphorical verse Woodson weaves a patchwork of her life experience . . . that covers readers with a warmth and sensitivity no child should miss. This should be on every library shelf.”—School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW
* “Woodson cherishes her memories and shares them with a graceful lyricism; her lovingly wrought vignettes of country and city streets will linger long after the page is turned. For every dreaming girl (and boy) with a pencil in hand (or keyboard) and a story to share.”—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
Connections:
Other books by Jacqueline Woodson:
The Day You Begin
Each Kindness
Harbor Me
The Other Side
Related books:
One Crazy Summer ISBN: 978-0060760908
A Good Kind of Trouble ISBN: 978-0062836694
Inside Out and Back Again ISBN: 978-0061962790
Title: Big
Bibliography:
Harrison, V. (2023). Big. Little, Brown.
ISBN: 978-0316353229
Summary:
Big, by Vashti Harrison, is about a girl with a big laugh, big heart and very big dreams. Adults would tell her she was a big girl, and it was a good thing. Then, the girl grew and grew and it was no longer good. When she experiences something awful in the playground, she becomes more aware of her size and how people are reacting to it. This affects her self-esteem until one day, she decides to not let it get to her and gladly accepts the way she is.
Critical Analysis:
Big is a simple, yet impactful picture book. Through beautiful illustrations, Harrison tells a story of a young Black girl’s desires and demonstrates how words have the ability to empower someone or to cause much suffering. Throughout the story, Harrison enlarges certain words and phrases that bring even more meaning to the message of this book.
Cultural markers in this story include skin tone and hair texture. We can clearly see this since the girl is illustrated in shades of brown and pink while everyone else in the book is drawn in a grey-scale. Furthermore, in the touching author's note, Harrison writes of her hopes that the book will especially speak to all, especially those who are Black girls in big bodies.
In Big, Harrison encourages us readers to think back on how we treat others. The story sends the beautiful message on how we should not judge or treat others based on their body size. Harrison’s refined use of color, design and space, make this an outstanding book that is definitely a must read.
Review Excerpts:
* "Bestselling creator Harrison has produced another classic that belongs on every child’s shelf—this is one that will nurture little ones and help them to see the beauty in themselves.... A healing balm with the power to make the world a bit kinder."―Kirkus, starred review
* "This emotionally and socially resonant picture book stands out with its exceptional strength, beauty, and grace."―Booklist, starred review
* "This book resonates with a potential emotional impact that is immense....This inspiring and highly relatable title could be used with readers of any age to discuss topics of body image and self-love."―School Library Journal, starred review
Connections:
Other books by Vashti Harrison:
Dream Big, Little One
Hair Love
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History (Leaders & Dreamers, 1)
Related books:
Walter the White Crayon ISBN: 978-1736105207
The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes: A Growth Mindset Book for Kids to Boost Confidence, Self-Esteem and Resilience ISBN: 978-1774470381
Title: Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans
Bibliography:
Nelson, K. (2011). Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans. HarperCollins.
ISBN: 978-0061730795
Summary:
Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans tells the story of the United States from the viewpoint of African Americans. It tells how the country is formed and how African Americans play a role. The story incorporates slavery, abolition, the Civil War, the westward migration, suffrage, and civil rights. It also demonstrates how African American’s gain their freedom and equal rights and how this helps our country to become the all men and women are created equal.
Critical Analysis:
Heart and The Story of America and African Americans is an amazing and inspiring book that tells about Black history in America. It is told through the eyes of a African American narrator, which makes the story yet more impactful.
The illustrations in this book are just breathtaking. The paintings cover the emotion and tone of the narrative so skillfully. They portray what each page of the book tells in such a magnificent manner. These paintings also emphasize so many cultural markers. You can clearly observe the skin tones and facial features along with their hair textures and hairstyles. The text includes so many as well.
Undoubtedly, Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans is a great read. It includes specific contributions and accomplishments of many African American people. I was familiar with some, while many others were new to me. I highly recommend this book. It is one that audiences of all ages can appreciate and enjoy.
Review Excerpts:
The dramatic oil paintings heighten the dignity of this story, whether they are of well-known historical figures, common folk or landscape…This intimate narrative makes the stories accessible to young readers and powerfully conveys how personal this history feels for many African-Americans. — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
Nelson…adds to his notable titles with this powerful view of African American history. Illustrated with 44 full-page paintings, this handsome volume is told in the fictionalized, informal voice of an African American senior looking back on her life and remembering what her elders told her. — Booklist (starred review)
Provocative and powerful, this book offers a much-needed perspective for individuals of all ages seeking to understand America’s past and present. — School Library Journal (starred review)
Nelson effectively creates a voice that is at once singular and representative. A tour de force in the career of an author/artist who continues to outdo himself. — Horn Book (starred review)
Connections:
Other books by Kadir Nelson:
Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom
If You Plant a Seed: An Easter And Springtime Book For Kids
He's Got the Whole World in His Hands
Related books:
The History of Juneteenth: A History Book for New Readers ISBN: 978-1685394417
Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better
ISBN: 978-0593563229
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