From the Bookshelf of St. Thomas More Anti-Racism Task Force …

The Life and Times of Frederick Douglass: Written by Himself

Frederick Douglass,

Richard Allen (Narrator)

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Sep 27, 2020 Mary Fratto rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Submitted on behalf of Harriet Goodpaster:
This book written in 1892 is remarkably approachable, given that the writer’s voice is of the 18th century.. The first part, which is the narrative of his childhood and youth as a slave, was first published in 1845. It provides a first-hand account of the cruel life of a slave, from the point of view of a perceptive and talented child. This child saw and keenly felt the “unjust” and “murderous” nature of slavery. Provided no education as an enslaved chil Submitted on behalf of Harriet Goodpaster:
This book written in 1892 is remarkably approachable, given that the writer’s voice is of the 18th century.. The first part, which is the narrative of his childhood and youth as a slave, was first published in 1845. It provides a first-hand account of the cruel life of a slave, from the point of view of a perceptive and talented child. This child saw and keenly felt the “unjust” and “murderous” nature of slavery. Provided no education as an enslaved child, he nonetheless taught himself to read, finding resources wherever he could. His longing to be free becomes an implacable determination until at the age of 23, or thereabout, he managed to make his escape. This is a gripping story of his sufferings and his eventual success in reaching the Frees state of Massachusetts.

After this narrative, Part 2, first published separately as My Bondage and My Freedom, takes up Douglas’s growth as a champion for equal rights, and his public life as an orator and a writer. He started his own newspaper in Rochester, NY, where he eventually settled with his family. This part of his life is so involved with the events happening in the country, it is like seeing our country’s history through the eyes of Douglass. He had interviews with President Lincoln and attended Lincoln’s Second Inauguration. As an Appendix to this part is the text of his speech for the unveiling of the Freedmen’s monument, in memory of Abraham Lincoln. This speech is historically interesting, but also gave insight into Douglass’ character. Many more events of national importance are described here.

Part 3 is his later life when he thought perhaps his work was done. But despite universal emancipation from slavery, Douglass saw the problem of color prejudice in everyday life as a danger to our Republic. He continued to work on behalf of equal rights for his people the rest of his life. He also joined in the fight for Women’s rights.

This reading is appropriate for the Growth zone. I give it 5 Stars, as the story of an amazing man, it is inspiring. Although long, I highly recommend reading it, especially Part 1. After reading that part, you may find that you have to keep reading! ...more

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