Book Review: Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt
Rated by 2 members
What Parents Should Know
Children will become engrossed in the expressive paintings
and the tale of a heroine's determination to reach freedom and
find her mother.
Common Sense Media Review
"It was like being in a dream you already dreamed," explains
Sweet Clara as she follows the landmarks to freedom that other
slaves had told her about, landmarks she had sewn into her
freedom quilt. Clara's determination is a trait all listeners
will admire.
Deborah Hopkinson writes in a compelling and confident voice this true story of a slave girl who sews a map on a quilt. Listeners feel as if they are inside Clara's head, hoping and working to freedom. Harsh facts about slavery, such as beatings of runaways, are appropriately downplayed in this book aimed at young listeners.
The textured paintings by James Ransome add richness and depth to the story. Visible brush strokes and warm tones are used to express the dignity and sadness of the slaves. When Aunt Rachel's hand traces the path of Clara's stitches on the freedom quilt, one can imagine the feel of the fabric under her fingertips.
Another good choice on the subject is Journey to Freedom: A Story of the Underground Railroad, by Courtni C. Wright. Hopkinson has written another history of a confident, young heroine, Birdie's Lighthouse.
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