Ann Rinaldi (1934–2021)

Sis Goose is a beloved member of Luli's family, despite the fact that she was born a slave. But the family is harboring a terrible secret. And when Union soldiers arrive on their Texas plantation to announce that slaves have been declared free for nearly two years, Sis Goose is horrified to learn that the people she called family have lied to her for so long. She runs away--but her newly found freedom has tragic consequences.

How could the state of Texas keep the news of the Emancipation Proclamation from reaching slaves? In this riveting Great Episodes historical drama, Ann Rinaldi sheds light on the events that led to the creation of Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom that continues today.

-Amazon description… (more)

An historical novel about the childhoods of Mary Todd Lincoln and Elizabeth Keckley, two women coming from opposite ends of society prior to the Civil War.

Mary Todd came from a plantation owning family. She was brought up with fine clothes, housing and slaves, schooled in educational and social arts during an era where women were groomed to be more like background to their husbands, yet expected to run the household like a corporation.

Elizabeth’s mother was a slave, seamstress to the family. Elizabeth’s father was the plantation owner, which put her in the house staff and not in the fields. Nothing more, but if she didn’t behave it could be much less.

Both had difficult childhoods. Mary Todd was the fourth of six children. Her mother died giving birth to Mary’s youngest brother. The following year her father remarried, which was too early for the mourning, but her felt the need to have someone to care for the children. The new wife brought “a new standard of elegance” to the family. From day one she was in charge of the home and children. She was the centerpiece and she had no love for Mary.

Elizabeth was light in skin but it didn’t make any difference in her position in her world. She was still and slave and as long as she was in the south she had no say in her life. Being a girl made it even harsher.

Both girls had dreams and they worked towards them. Mary’s was to marry a politician and live in the White House. Elizabeth’s was to be a free woman and run her own life. Interestingly they did accomplish their dreams, even though it was not easy.

This is a short read. The description of life in that era is harsh and difficult. The fancy dress, and the opulence of one life against the brutal treatment and hard labour of the other emphasizes the extreme differences between the two.… (more)