Dear Blog,
Today I read a historical fiction picture book titled Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad (2007). Henry's Freedom Box was written by Ellen Levine and illustrated by Kadir Nelson. It was nominated and awarded both the Caldecott Award and the Notable Children's Book Award in 2008.
Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad tells the story of Henry "Box" Brown and the life he lived during slavery. Throughout the story, Henry is separated from his wife and kids. He becomes devastated as he knows he will never see his family again. This sparks Henry's determination to gain his freedom, so with the help from others, he designs a box to ship himself to a land free of slavery. Once Henry arrives in Pennsylvania, he declares March 30, 1849 as his first birthday-- the day he gained his freedom.
Henry's Freedom Box is an inspiring book that portrays one of the many escapes made during the Underground Railroad. This story would be excellent to read leading up to Black History Month. Before reading this story to my class, I would begin by having them carefully examine the front cover. I would ask them questions like, "How do you think Henry will gain his freedom?" "What is the purpose of the box?" Throughout the story, Henry compares his freedom to birds. I would ask my class, "What do the birds in the story symbolize?" "How do you know?"
It is important for our students to understand the tragedies and tribulations encountered by those in the past. With this book, we will discuss how Henry "Box" Brown had to preserver and fight the odds in order to gain his freedom.
McKenzie Walls
McKenzie, Great pick! I have this book in my school library and read it during Black History Month. This book has some important aspects to talk about: tragedy, risk, and freedom. Your questions are spot on!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great choice! I too read this during Black History Month. I think it's important to talk about the mistakes of the past so that they are not repeated. I use it to explain and have the children realize how valuable freedom is! Thanks for your post!
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of this book, but will be using instructional money to purchase it for my classroom. I always tell my students we have to learn about the past so we do not repeat it. Thank you for sharing an excellent book!
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