Patricia C McKissack Books

‘A Picture of Freedom’ is one of the ‘My Story’ series. It takes the form of diary entries, inspired by the true life-story of Clotee Henley, an enslaved girl on the Belmont Plantation, Virginia, in the mid-1800s.

Clotee works in the ‘Big House’ of the plantation, serving Mas’ Henley, Miz Lilly and their son William. As a witness to William’s education, Clotee learns to read and write – a skill that could have severe consequences if it was discovered. Despite this, Clotee endeavours to learn what she can. As her mind broadens, Clotee begins to wonder about the true meaning of the word, ‘freedom’. Becoming involved in the Underground Railroad and helping over 150 people escape slavery, Clotee comes to understand what a true picture of freedom looks like.

‘A Picture of Freedom’ tells a complex, emotional and heart-warming story in a child-friendly way, by describing some of the horrors of slavery through a child’s point of view. The author uses Clotee’s voice, including misunderstood spellings and words, immersing the reader in her Virginian drawl.
Many people will have heard of Harriet Tubman or Sojourner Truth but not heard of Clotee Henley or many others who also risked their lives during this turbulent time. This brave young woman not only risked her life to save over a hundred people but later dedicated her life to education, equal rights and women’s suffrage – a true inspiration.

This would be a brilliant book to share with children to understand some of the history around slavery in America. Many would be shocked to hear about the treatment of slaves but be inspired by the courage of people like Clotee and other abolitionists. I am sure it would lead to some very interesting discussions and debates, as well as providing a focus text for a biography unit in English.