Synopsis: It's 1863. Harriet Tubman is facing one of the biggest—and most
dangerous— challenges of her life. She has survived her master's lash, escaped
from slavery, and risked her life countless times to lead runaway slaves to
freedom along the Underground Railroad. Now she has a new role—that of Union
spy! The outcome of a secret night raid deep into Confederate territory depends
on the accuracy of the intelligence she and other black spies have gathered. Success
will mean freedom for hundreds of slaves. Failure will mean death by hanging.
You are about to enter the undercover world of African-American
spies—enslaved and free—risking everything in the name of freedom. How were the
Underground Railroad and slave songs used to pass secret messages? What were
"contrabands" and "Black Dispatches?" What did Harriet have
in common with the Secret Six and a maidservant in the home of Confederate
President Jefferson Davis? You'll discover these answers and more as the action
unfolds. (From the back of the book)
Review: I pick this up during my first foray into a newly discovered used bookstore. I'll read anything about Harriet Tubman, but this book in particular caught my eye because it's not a bigraphy, per se, but focuses more on her role as spy during the Civil War. Included are small stories about other slaves who worked as spies, often risky life and freedom in doing so. The book is cleverly designed, using pictures and script reminiscent of the time. Quick and easy, with clear prose and exciting stories, I'd recommend this to anyone interested in a starting point for further research. In particular, this would be an excellent read for elementary age children who are interested in the Civil War and Slavery.
Bookmarks: 7 of 10
Awards: None
Date Finished: 9-8-2013
Pages: 192
No comments:
Post a Comment