Sojourner Truth

In Their Own Words

by Connie Roop, Connie Roop

This unique biography of Sojourner Truth tells the exciting story of her life using personal recollections, as well as letters and articles written by those who knew her.

"I am pleading for the mothers, Who gaze in wild despair, Upon the hated auction-block, And see their children there."

With these words Sojourner Truth sang about the pain that women slaves felt when their children were sold away from them. Sojourner Truth was born a slave in New York. Her son Peter was taken away from her and she went to extraordinary lengths to get him back. Through hard work and the help of her friends, Sojourner freed herself and her children from slavery. As a free woman, she traveled across the country speaking against slavery and in favor of women's rights.

Genres: Biography, History, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2003

About the author

Peter Roop, a Wisconsin State Teacher of the Year, has been bringing books and children together for over 30 years. He has written extensively for Cricket and Cobblestone Magazines. He currently writes and speaks full-time. Last year he visited 10 states and talked with over 10,000 students! Connie Roop, a high school environmental science teacher, is a recipient of the Women Leaders in Education Award from the American Association of University Women and a Kohl Education Foundation Award for Exceptional Teaching. Last Year Connie visited four states and shared her writing experiences with 5,000 students..

Together, Connie and Peter have written 100 children's books ranging from historical fiction to nonfiction. Seven of their books are "Reading Rainbow" books, including Keep the Lights Burning, Abbie, a Feature Book. Their books have received recognition from the National Association of Science Teachers, National Council of Teachers of English, the Children's Book Council, and the American Library Association. They have presented over 800 workshops for students, educators and writers in 26 states as well as Europe, Africa and Asia.

Reviews

[Johnny G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very well done book about the life of Sojourner Truth. She was born a slave, became free, traveled all over the place speaking about how slavery is wrong, met two Presidents (Lincoln and Grant), became the first African-American woman (probably) to own her own home, and was the first woman inducted into the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame. And a whole lot of other things. The book is written for a level S reader, but I would say anyone who's interested from R-U would enjoy it.

[Adrie Olson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick snapshot- good for the boys to read!

[Zoe D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sojourner Truth was an amazing women with a extremely difficult life. She was a slave who lost her children and went on an amazing journey to try to find them. She also spoke against slavery, and sang with an glorious voice. Her story is definitely an interesting one!
I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in hearing about other's life stories, and even if you don't it might surprise you!

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good introduction to her life, kinda like a cliff-notes-type-of-book. Would be great for kids, but for adults there are better books on her life. Nonetheless it was still a good, quick read.

[Dayna Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cute introduction to nonfiction.

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Their Own Words Sojourner Truth was an insightful look into a strong woman born into slavery. We learn about her family, owners, daily trials and triumphs.

I loved how the author showed sojourner’s dignity and strength. The fact that she and her family spoke Dutch, resided in New York and toiled for freedom that was continually denied made her slave-story different, not better but unique in many ways.

Her family was ripped apart before she had a chance to meet them. Their owner was spoken of as kind yet the family wasn't allowed a cabin. They were rained upon, often froze and rarely had enough to eat. There were so many moments in this book that rang horror and sadness. I am grateful that there was joy in the end of Sojourner’s story, and I hope that this life story is given more attention in schools.

[Ashlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very inspiring book that shows that you can do anything if you put your mind to it. It also helps you realize how hard it was to be a slave. It teaches that you need to stand for what you believe.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing was dry, but the information was fascinating. I think elementary students will enjoy learning about her life.

[Nichol · Rating 4 out of 5]

awsome