They have to read and write. We all have to read and write so we can write about this-----what they doing to us. It has to be written." Nightjohn
B A G
"I make the word. I couldn't believe it. I came to make the word. Don't matter what the word is, what it mean. Just to make the word. The first word." Sarny
In this inspiring novel, Gary Paulsen introduces readers to Sarny, a feisty young slave girl who is determined to learn to read. We also meet Nightjohn, a rebel who escaped slavery only to return to teach other slaves how to read. Both are slaves on Clel Waller's plantation.
At a time when knowing how to read meant dismemberment, this novel highlights the bravery, strength, and boldness of Sarny and Nightjohn. Despite the horrific consequences of literacy, they refused to loose focus.
"It is wrong to learn to read." Waller's voice loud bouncing off the buildings...Waller had two field hands to hold one of John's feet on the block. THUNK.... The toe came off clean.
This daring novel is enhanced by Paulsen's brillant attention to detail. He provides readers with relevant historical facts and amazing descriptive content which significantly contributes to the authenticity of the story.
"Two times a day at a wooden trough-----that's how we eat. Mornings they pour buttermilk down the trough and we dip cornbread in it and sometimes pork fat."
Paulsen's novel exposes young readers to an extremely dark era in our history while at the same time presenting a remarkable tale of courage and determination! Young history enthusiasts will treasure this captivating tale.
