So Tall Within:
Sojourner Truth's Long Walk Toward Freedom
by Gary D. Schmidt ill Daniel Minter
"I had a work to do"
Isabella Baumfree was born into slavery. Her childhood and early adult existence consisted of back-breaking soul-crushing servitude. When it became apparent that the promise of freedom made to her would not be forthcoming, she took her baby and fled, determined to be free.
A sympathetic couple protected her and helped her start a life as a free woman. Changing her name to Sojourner Truth, she commenced on a life-long mission to speak truth. Traversing the United States, she became a popular speaker at camp meetings and other gatherings, denouncing the evils of slavery wherever she went. Before, during, and after the Civil War she courageously walked across the country, advocating for the rights of women and African Americans.
With poetic eloquence, Schmidt pens a moving tribute to the life and influence of Sojourner Truth. The introductory phrase for the first eight sections of Schmidt’s narrative begins with the words “In Slavery Time,” and describes the life of the enslaved where “Respect fell as often as snow in July.”
A sympathetic couple protected her and helped her start a life as a free woman. Changing her name to Sojourner Truth, she commenced on a life-long mission to speak truth. Traversing the United States, she became a popular speaker at camp meetings and other gatherings, denouncing the evils of slavery wherever she went. Before, during, and after the Civil War she courageously walked across the country, advocating for the rights of women and African Americans.
With poetic eloquence, Schmidt pens a moving tribute to the life and influence of Sojourner Truth. The introductory phrase for the first eight sections of Schmidt’s narrative begins with the words “In Slavery Time,” and describes the life of the enslaved where “Respect fell as often as snow in July.”
The final three segments herald the effects of her unwearied efforts. Each begins with the phrase “In Freedom Time” and echoes a hope for change. “Respect wanted to show its face and Broken Promises tried to mend.”
Minter's illustrations forcefully emphasize Sojourner's regal stature, proportionally lengthening her legs. Gorgeous art is rich with symbolism: trees with roots and branches, faces blurred or washed out, moon and stars shining in the night sky, heavy iron collars and bloody stripes on a back. Book design gives added emphasis to the shape and form of the text.
Back matter includes a wealth of information and includes a biographical note, bibliography, and artist’s note. So Tall Within is a stellar achievement. This resplendent volume honoring an American hero belongs in every classroom and library serving young people.
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Copy provided by publisher.
Pub date: September 25, 2018 Publisher: Roaring Brook Press ISBN: 978-1626728721
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