Women of Courage: Sojourner Truth: All Men (and Women) Are Created Equal

by Barbour Staff

They're bold. They're fearless. They're adventurous. They have a faith that can move mountains. They're women of courage.

This series of easy-read biographies celebrates the lives of women who lived lives committed to changing the world for better. What set them apart? The willingness to live courageously for Christ, even in the midst of impossible situations.
 
In Sojourner Truth , you will meet the tall, powerful former slave and abolitionist whose biblically-based call for equality—for both African Americans and women—secured her a place in American history.
 
Wherever she appeared, the wise words and electrifying presence of Sojourner Truth brought audiences to their feet. The lengthy shadow cast by her near-six-foot frame and the challenge to injustice issued by her stinging speeches have secured her a place in American history—a place as a woman of courage.
 
Get inspired by her story, celebrate her legacy, and learn that God can use each of us for mighty things. . .if we have courage .
 

208 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2020

Reviews

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of Sojourner Truth, her life and legacy. Filled with history. Great book for sharing with young and old. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.



About the Book:

They're bold. They're fearless. They're adventurous. They have a faith that can move mountains. They're women of courage.

This series of easy-read biographies celebrates the lives of women who lived lives committed to changing the world for better. What set them apart? The willingness to live courageously for Christ, even in the midst of impossible situations.

In Sojourner Truth, you will meet the tall, powerful former slave and abolitionist whose biblically-based call for equality—for both African Americans and women—secured her a place in American history.

Wherever she appeared, the wise words and electrifying presence of Sojourner Truth brought audiences to their feet. The lengthy shadow cast by her near-six-foot frame and the challenge to injustice issued by her stinging speeches have secured her a place in American history—a place as a woman of courage.

Get inspired by her story, celebrate her legacy, and learn that God can use each of us for mighty things. . .if we have courage.


My Review:

Courageous was her middle name. Never in history has anyone ever grabbed the bull by the horns as she did or stood up in the face of danger and God touch it so dramatically as when He moved on Sojourner's behalf. Born into slavery, but God raised her up to be a role model for man and woman alike. She was a major role model and proponent in history and she changed the lives of many slaves. To be honest she provided a major turning point for abolition of slavery, itself.


Not only was the average American set to learn a lot from this woman but the slave, as well. They all had to change their way of thinking if this was ever going to succeed.


What a great way to revisit the past and to see the brighter future on the horizon to bring an end to slavery so many things had to be set in place by God and by the tools he chose to use to change the course of it all.


A great read!

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book for young adults to read. History is of great importance to us and young people need to read about those who helped make this country great. What a shining example Sojourner Truth was.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was u see no obligation to post a review.

[Regina Chari · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It is hard for the old slave-holding spirit to die, but die it must." Sojourner Truth

When I began Women of Courage: Sojourner Truth I thought I had a basic knowledge of who Sojourner Truth was. This book introduced me to the most incredible woman. Her story is one of courage, strength and faith. Belle had parents who loved her and a mother who instilled truth in her life that allowed her to face the unbearable life that slavery brought. When she changed her name to Sojourner Truth (based on two Bible verses that were important to her) she carried the lessons her mother taught her in her heart.

This woman loved God, she followed God to the best of her ability and she heard directly from Him regarding His will for her. She loved His word and despite being illiterate she studied the Bible and was able to speak and teach about God's word in a way that was unusual in its depth, vulnerability and lens of social justice.

The hardships she faced were brutal, unjust and unthinkable, but her faith was real and unstoppable. She used the word and the power of God to battle not only personal but systemic injustice.

The quotes in this book are from the time period in which she lived, so there will be terms that are offensive, I think it's important to keep the language true to the times as to not dilute how despicable the overt racism during this time was. It's important to know how far we have come so we can be encouraged for the journey we still have ahead of us.

I loved hearing about her adventures traveling around the nation speaking to crowds. I loved hearing how other historical figures described her and of her interactions with American presidents, especially Abraham Lincoln. She was a feisty, strong and resilient woman who will hold a special place in my heart. I am inspired by her story and grateful for the impact she has had on our nation.

The publisher provided an ARC through Netgalley. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts. I am grateful to have read this story and to know more about Sojourner Truth, she was truly a woman of courage and a hero.

"You are free now. Don't let anyone treat you like slaves" Sojourner Truth

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sojourner Truth was a very familiar name to me, but I was amazed as I read this book how little I truly knew about her life. She was, as I did know, an abolitionist, but I was unaware of her work in the women's rights movement or of her Christian evangelism. Born Isabella Baumfree, she went by the name Belle, taking her masters' last names as her own. At about forty-six years of age she decided to become a traveling evangelist, and wanted a new name for a free woman. She selected the name Sojourner from Psalm 39:12. Later she adopted the last name Truth from John 8:32. The life she experienced as Belle was much different than I expected,and even included living as part of a cult. Her accomplishments as an illiterate woman of color living in the 1800s are truly amazing. Obstacles that would seem unconquerable in or own time appear as mere inconveniences to Sojourner who memorized much of the Bible, traveled around the nation in spite of having very little money, and consulted with presidents.

This book is plainly written with an emphasis on facts without embellishment. It is a quick read, but quite inspirational. Sojourner deserves honor and recognition for her role in our nation's history. I am grateful to have received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sojouner Truth truly was a woman of courage and this book shares her story in a way that is appealing to both children and adults. I have always known her name but this book shows me just how little I truly knew of her life. Given the name of Isabella at birth, she was called Belle by her master and went by this name until she was a middle-aged woman and traveling as an evangelist. She chose Sojourner as her first name because of her journeys and the last name of Truth because of her love for the Bible verse, John 8:32, that states "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." That was her mantra as she worked to preach God's Word, to share His truth to all people, and to encourage equality for all.

Her determination and her courage gained her respect from the three Presidents that she met and her Christian beliefs helped her spread God's Word throughout her evangelistic career. This woman of color, who was born a slave and was unable to read or write, became a beacon for justice and freedom. Sojourner Truth is truly an important part of our nation's history and this book is an inspiring testament to her life.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Beverly Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the late 1700s, a baby named Belle, with no choice of her own, was born into slavery. Slavery was all Belle knew and she grew up in appalling conditions. After suffering many hardships including being separated from her family, living in poor conditions, and being beaten and abused, Belle chose to take control of her own life. Though her life was never easy, she used the bad circumstances she had been through and fought to help others find better lives. In her later years, Belle became known as the historical figure, Sojourner Truth. She fought to abolish slavery and spread the Word of God until her dying day. Though Sojourner didn't live to see the end of slavery, she made waves in history that will never be forgotten.

Sojourner Truth is such a remarkable and important woman in history. Her story is an inspiration to all people. While reading this book, I learned so much about Sojourner's life. I thought this biography was well done and covered all of the important details about Sojourner Truth. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was an easy read with a powerful punch. It is a perfect example of how God can use anyone who is open to bring the truth of His words to light. Although illiterate she was an imposing woman that fought for rights for blacks and women, and was never afraid to stand for what was right. I would love to hear her sing and address white slave owners telling them God would judge them. The boldness and courage she possessed left its mark on American History but yet we don’t hear much about it. I was blessed to read this and would love to see it in every school library. She had such amazing words she spoke, “Religion without humanity is very poor human stuff” and “If women want any rights more than they's got, why don't they just take them, and not be talking about it.” This is definitely a must read that I tell others about.
I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Debora Wilder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A biography that captured and kept my interest.

I had heard the name Sojourner Truth before. All I knew about her was that she was black and she had been a slave. I’m very glad that I took the time to read this biography about her.

The descriptions of her life while she was still a slave just broke my heart. I will never understand how some people can treat others as property. I loved reading about her courage in standing up for herself and claiming her freedom. She was an incredible woman and I believe that we can all benefit from reading her story.

I was fascinated to read all the details about her encounters and meetings with very famous people from her time period. It amazed me that a former slave was able to enter in with high ranking individuals.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Women of Courage: Sojourner Truth

All Men (and Women) Are Created Equal

by Compiled by Barbour Staff

Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Barbour Books
Biographies & Memoirs , Christian


Pub Date 01 Feb 2020



I am reviewing a copy of Women of Courage: Sojourner Truth through Barbour Publishing and Netgalley:


In this book we learn of Sojourner’s Truth’s commitment. Despite not being able to read Sojourner Truth dictate The Narrative of Sojourner Truth to a friend allowing others to know how she had been freed from slavery determined to use her story to help others, she also realized that not only slaves needed liberation though, but women did as well. Sojourner Truth joined the movement in the late 1840’s. At first the Abolitionist and Women’s Movement’s joined forces until the separatists wanted to split the movements.



Sojourner Truth became popular in the Anti-Slavery and women’s right movements after her autobiography.


By the Mid 1850’s, Sojourner Truth had become known all over the United State. She wasn’t the only black woman whose anti slavery efforts drew attention. During this period, Harriet Tubman, the poet Frances E. W. Harper, and the abolitionist Sarah Remond often addressed women’s antislavery conventions and women’s rights meetings as well.


As Sojourner Truth continued to speak out in favor of the end of slavery, she insisted that freedom for blacks must be accompanied by freedom for women.


Sojourner Truth had a way of captivating her audience with her electrifying presence, her nearly six foot frame, her powerful and heartfelt, Biblically based speeches cemented her place in history as a woman of courage.

I give Woman of Courage: Sojourner Truth five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

[Marie Pinkham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not know much about this fascinating, dedicated lady who played a big part in our country's history. This book, part of a "Women of Courage" series, is a moving chronicle of her life as a staunch supporter of the anti-slavery movement and the women's rights movements. A former slave, simple and uneducated, she was not intimidated by the mostly white male audiences she met who were in opposition to both. Her wit, gumption, and knowledge of the facts earned her respect from crowds who did not expect such from her. Greatly respected and loved by some, equally reviled by others, she was guided by her belief that the truth (hence her name) would eventually win out. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These thoughts are my own.

[Lilian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sojourner Truth was a woman of valour and ahead of her times Despite her lack of education, she was able to command crowds with her boldness, quick wit and straight up common sense. As the authors say"Unlike some speakers who drones on for hours, she impressed her listeners with the ability to cut to the heart of a complex issue in just a few words."

As a non-American reader I got a good sense of Sojourner's life and was encouraged by her tenacity through out her life. One of the biggest takeaways I got from this book, is that it's never too late to begin your second act in life.

The edition compiled by the Barbour Staff is an easy and quick read that can accommodate both young and older readers.

P.S. I am grateful to the publisher for allowing me read the ARC via Netgalley.

[Sally · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sojourner Truth is the kind of book that grabbed me right away as I read the beginning of her life. It was filled with pain and sorrow, as well as shocking accounts of her experiences. In summary, her life was amazing!
As a adult in the 19th century, she followed God's call to head east and began speaking with authority even though she was illiterate she knew the Bible from hearing. She spoke about slavery and women's rights, the injustice, giving hope to the people who heard her speak.
This is an historical account of her life.
I received complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Nancy Shaner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sojourner Truth had a very interesting life. You just don't think about slaves in NY state but in Colonial times it was common. She was a woman of integrity and a strong sense of duty to her causes. Her keen wit and adherence to the truth made her a powerful champion of the cause of abolition and women's rights. A remarkable woman. I like this book very much and highly recommend it. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living in a town that honors Sojourner Truth, I especially was excited to read this book. It was wonderful. I learned so much about her life and the history behind all she did. Truly remarkable and I wonder if I would have half the courage this woman did facing what she faced. Great read – excited to share with others, including my children.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to review. All opinions are my own.

[Courtney Birkbeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an important book for any man or woman that is feeling like they're stuck or stagnant in life. They want to do something crazy and good for God, or people and they just don't know how to get there.

This book makes it clear how, people who want to do things in a big way for the world, have to step out of their comfort zone and get crazy.

I will definitely be suggesting this book to my friends and family and will let my girls read it when they're a bit older.

[Shannan Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

An indepth look into the life of one of the greatest abolitionist of the 1800's. Born into Slavery, Isabella Bumfree eventually changed her name, escapade from slavery and continued to work to change the laws and help others become free until her death. a very interesting read that really makes you think. It was a very good read.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was better suited for YA genre. I was very disappointed in the lack of depth for this book. Although, there was good factual information about this brave woman of history.
A much better fit for a youth than an adult reader.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was fascinated by Women of Courage: Sojourner Truth: All Men (and Women) Are Created Equal. I thought it was a great and quick read about this inspiring woman. I am giving it four and a half stars.

[Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a digital arc from netgalley. Thank you for accepting my request*

Great book! I'm so happy I learned so much about this amazing, strong, powerful woman!! Wow!
Really the only issue I have is that black people are often called "blacks" in this book, which matches the language of the time when Sojourner lived, but seems quite problematic for a book to be published in 2020. But that's really the only issue I have.
I'm glad I know who Sojourner Truth was and I will tell everyone I know about her to keep her amazing legacy alive.

[Krista · Rating 4 out of 5]

The tragic truth is Sojourner’s name is not known. This book should be read and shared as an important part of Emancipation and Women’s rights history in America. Her name deserves to be remembered as much as Harriet Tubman and Susan B. Anthony.

Well written summary of her life and mission. The only area of improvement I can suggest is to eliminate several places of redundancy (almost word for word) in different chapters.