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The bell rang

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By: James E. Ransome
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2019. Picture book.

A week long story about a slave family who lives and works on a plantation where each work day begins with the ringing of a bell. After the bell rings daddy gathers wood, mama cooks and then everyone leaves for the fields except for the youngest girl who is sent each day with the other "young'uns" to be watched by Miss Sarah Mae. One day the oldest son, Ben takes a chance at freedom. The family is left behind with sadness and hopefulness for the new life Ben may have.

This is a beautiful poetically told story with stunning illustrations about the hard life many African Americans had in the 1800's. Its a look at the difficult decisions many made in choosing freedom over leaving their family behind. A story that will cultivate empathy for families and children who were enslaved.


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