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Walking the Road to Freedom: A Story about Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth was born into slavery in New York in 1797 or 1798. She never knew for sure which year she was born or even whether it was summer or winter. By the time she was a young woman, Sojourner knew she could no longer live as a slave, and with the help of Quakers, she escaped to freedom. She then began her long struggle to reunite her family and to free other slaves.
64 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1988
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 24, 2020
Well written biography. Some details I question, but don't know enough to stand firm on my suspicions.
December 2, 2017
Very easy read, probably 2-4th grade reading level, and very appropriate for that age too. Revealing some of the details of slave-life that many children would not think of, this book also gives an inspirational view of this time in history. There are tragedies expressed, but overall it offers hope. Great starter book for young kids wanting to know more about slavery and impactful people in history.
February 18, 2022
I thought the book was fantastic. It portrayed a woman who stood up for the truth and wasn’t afraid to speak up forcefully to those who were more powerful than she was. However, the reader needs to know that the n-word is used. A conductor of a streetcar shouts, “Stand back, n——-, and let that lady on.” So the book would best be used with a parent or teacher’s guidance.
November 10, 2012
Reviewed by Jaglvr for TeensReadToo.com
Does the name Isabelle Hardenbergh mean anything to you? Chances are you've never heard the name before. But on the other hand, you probably have at least heard the name Sojourner Truth. If you're like me, you've heard her name, but had no idea what her importance was. Well, if you pick up WALKING THE ROAD TO FREEDOM, you will get a brief glimpse into the life of Sojourner.
Isabelle was born in New York as a slave. When she was a young girl, she was auctioned off and left her family. By the time she was about 13 years old, she'd already known four different masters. She was a hard worker and wondered out loud to God why they would hit her when she worked so hard.
It was only after her last master sold her 5-year-old son that Isabelle (or Belle) decided to do something about it. Slaves were to be freed in two years, and her master promised he'd free her a year early if she worked hard. But when the year was up and he failed to keep his promise, Belle set off on her own. She was determined to find her son, Peter, and get him back.
This was the start of a long journey for Belle. She found herself finally with her son in New York City. But when he was old enough and became a seaman, Belle realized she'd never have her entire family in one house. Her daughters had remained at her final master's house. At that point, she knew the Lord was talking to her, and had other plans. She gave away all of her money and decided on her new name. A sojourner is someone that goes from place to place, never staying long. And Truth is another name for the Lord.
Hence, Sojourner Truth was born.
Sojourner didn't set out to be an abolitionist, but life has a way of working out. Ms. Ferris details the struggles that Sojourner encounters throughout her life, and how she has come to be known for her untiring fight for the freedom of all slaves.
Does the name Isabelle Hardenbergh mean anything to you? Chances are you've never heard the name before. But on the other hand, you probably have at least heard the name Sojourner Truth. If you're like me, you've heard her name, but had no idea what her importance was. Well, if you pick up WALKING THE ROAD TO FREEDOM, you will get a brief glimpse into the life of Sojourner.
Isabelle was born in New York as a slave. When she was a young girl, she was auctioned off and left her family. By the time she was about 13 years old, she'd already known four different masters. She was a hard worker and wondered out loud to God why they would hit her when she worked so hard.
It was only after her last master sold her 5-year-old son that Isabelle (or Belle) decided to do something about it. Slaves were to be freed in two years, and her master promised he'd free her a year early if she worked hard. But when the year was up and he failed to keep his promise, Belle set off on her own. She was determined to find her son, Peter, and get him back.
This was the start of a long journey for Belle. She found herself finally with her son in New York City. But when he was old enough and became a seaman, Belle realized she'd never have her entire family in one house. Her daughters had remained at her final master's house. At that point, she knew the Lord was talking to her, and had other plans. She gave away all of her money and decided on her new name. A sojourner is someone that goes from place to place, never staying long. And Truth is another name for the Lord.
Hence, Sojourner Truth was born.
Sojourner didn't set out to be an abolitionist, but life has a way of working out. Ms. Ferris details the struggles that Sojourner encounters throughout her life, and how she has come to be known for her untiring fight for the freedom of all slaves.
February 7, 2017
This was a fantastic mini-chapter book biography on Sojouner Truth and a perfect addition to any elementary/middle school classroom or library. Often times I read picture book biographies that should be in a chapter book format due to the negative stigma of illustrated reads are "baby books." This is an example of how the correct format to fit the material will reach more readers. Loved it!
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August 17, 2010class set
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September 9, 2016Cool Book
May 2, 2014
it was good
May 14, 2014
So far it is a GREAT book!!!
April 23, 2015
This was a very eye opening book abought slavery.
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June 15, 2020CURRICULUM: BFB Early American History Intermediate
April 18, 2017
Great read , motivational, inspirational ! Great way to depict history.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews