Phillis's Big Test

March 1, 2008
Gr 1-4-This picture-book biography deals with a transformative moment in the life of Phillis Wheatley, the first African American to publish a book of poetry. In 1772, 18 members of the intelligentsia from the Massachusetts Bay Colony (including the governor) gathered to question the 17-year-old slave to ascertain the authorship of the poems she claimed were her own. An epilogue explains that no record remains of what transpired, but a document signed by those present was published with her collection of poems the following year. Clinton imagines Wheatley's thoughts as she proceeded through Boston, flashing back to her nights of intense preparation; childhood studies of English, Latin, Greek, and the Bible with the children of her master; and her arrival on a slave ship at age seven. Qualls's uncluttered acrylic and collage compositions employ strong diagonal lines, swirling ribbons of thought, and a combination of opaque images and outlined, transparent figures over washes of color to create visual interest. A warm sienna, contrasted with cool blues, grays, and browns, dominates the artist's palette. A formal tone, an occasional quaint turn of phrase, and a typeface with an irregular impression create the flavor of a time past. Clinton and Qualls offer an elegant introduction to an important individual, albeit without including any samples of Wheatley's poetry or a bibliography. Readers interested in more will appreciate Robin Doak's "Phillis Wheatley" (Compass Point, 2005) and Catherine Clinton's "A Poem of Her Own" (Abrams, 2003)."Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library"

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2008
Young Phillis Wheatly came to Boston as a slave in the mideighteenth century. Luckily, she had masters that encouraged her lessons, andas a young woman, she began to write poetry. In 1772, shewas about to publish her first book of poems whenpublication was halted by Boston printers who did not believe itwas written by a slave. This incident isthe focus of Clintons book, which emphasizes theday Phillis is to answer questions from 18 men in the colony, including the governor. Initially, the subject is promising. Although theres too much repetition about Wheatlys place in the world, Clinton ably weaves details ofthe womanslife into the narrative. But the book, which ends dramatically as Phillis walks into the meeting, leaves readers hanging, especially as theepilogue reveals thatno record of the examination ever existed.Even more disappointing is that none of Wheatlys poetry is actually quoted. Happily, Qualls terrific mixed-mediaart (paintings, drawings, collages) enlivens every page. Unusual perspectives and panoramas make eye-catching settings for an affecting Phillis, who is always at center stage.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)