Parents' Guide to

Frederick Douglass: The Lion Who Wrote History

By Kyle Jackson, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 7+

Beautifully illustrated bio of abolition's greatest hero.

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Walter Dean Meyers' succinct but powerful writing, paired with Floyd Cooper's gorgeous, evocative illustrations, makes an effective, emotional introduction to a dark chapter in American history. Carefully emphasizing Douglass' bravery and resilience, Frederick Douglass: The Lion Who Wrote History does well to show how his unique character and situation led to him becoming an important voice of resistance against the morally corrupt system of slavery and the destructive oppression of women. Cooper's striking portraits and haunting landscapes bring the 19th century to life, and Douglass' timely message of justice for all Americans is as important now as ever.

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