Facing Frederick: The Life of Frederick Douglass, a Monumental American Man
By Kyle Jackson,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Compelling, fact-filled bio of the abolitionist icon.
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What's the Story?
FACING FREDERICK: THE LIFE OF FREDERICK DOUGLASS, A MONUMENTAL AMERICAN MAN is a sweeping biography of one of the most dynamic and influential civil rights champions of the 19th century. Award-winning children's author Tonya Bolden, whose many books have often focused on people and events central to understanding African American history, provides an informative introduction to a man whose life and publishing career (he started the abolitionist newspaper the North Star) brought him in touch with many of the leading figures fighting for reform and social justice in the United States and Britain. The book uses lots of quotes from primary sources to bring readers in touch with the debates being had during the lead-up to and aftermath of the Civil War, revealing the complicated and highly contested politics of the period. Less focused on the biographical details of Douglass' fascinating life, Bolden's biography instead highlights the connections between abolitionists like Douglass and other reformers and activists. By the end, readers will have come into contact with many of the major moments and movements of the century, as seen through the eyes of one remarkable man.
Is It Any Good?
Well-researched and well-written, this biography is a perfect overview for young students of American history. Bolden throws in so many names, dates, and quotes that some middle schoolers may get a little bit lost, but as a starting point for learning about abolitionism, the book excels. The striking portraits throughout the work help bring the story to life, as do the images of documents from the archives.
Some may find Bolden's writing style a little too informal or stylized, but her storytelling is engaging and compelling throughout. Facing Frederick is an excellent tool for introducing and understanding the long and difficult fight for liberation and social justice during an incredibly violent and volatile chapter in the history of the United States.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the fight to abolish slavery detailed in Facing Frederick. How did that effort connect to other social justice issues of the day? How did abolitionism lead to the beginnings of black liberation movements?
Why does Frederick initially argue against pushing to give women the right to vote? Why does he consider the right to vote so important for African Americans following the Civil War?
What can the words and wisdom of Frederick Douglass teach us about injustice and oppression in our time? Does his message still ring true?
Book Details
- Author: Tonya Bolden
- Genre: Biography
- Topics: Great Boy Role Models, History
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
- Publication date: January 9, 2018
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 10 - 14
- Number of pages: 208
- Available on: Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: February 22, 2018
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