Frederick Douglass

February 15, 2004
Gr 1-3-Any book that talks about Douglass's life would of necessity also discuss slavery, and Rau's treatment of it allows children to sympathize with this man who endured much misery before going on to work first to escape from that life and then to speak out on the importance of freedom and education for all. Period illustrations in black and white and in color enhance the text. Photos of Douglass's newspaper, The North Star; his autobiography; and of him and his wife bring readers closer to the man. The time line gives a good overview and the "Want to Know More?" section has potential for furthering research. A good introduction for beginning readers and as a read-aloud to younger children.-Jennifer England, The Berkeley Carroll School, Brooklyn, NY

Copyright 2004 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2004
Gr 1-3-Any book that talks about Douglass's life would of necessity also discuss slavery, and Rau's treatment of it allows children to sympathize with this man who endured much misery before going on to work first to escape from that life and then to speak out on the importance of freedom and education for all. Period illustrations in black and white and in color enhance the text. Photos of Douglass's newspaper, The North Star; his autobiography; and of him and his wife bring readers closer to the man. The time line gives a good overview and the "Want to Know More?" section has potential for furthering research. A good introduction for beginning readers and as a read-aloud to younger children.-Jennifer England, The Berkeley Carroll School, Brooklyn, NY

Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.