Reference Sunday: Words Set Me Free by Lesa Cline-Ransome illutrted by James E. Ransome

A few weeks ago I wrote about a book the book Love Twelve Miles Long .  It tells the story of Frederick Douglas and how his Mother influenced his life.   When my sister read my post she introduced me to another picture book about Frederick Douglas written by her friend Lisa Cline-Ransome.   I am always amazed when two books are published at about the same time on the same subject without each taking anything away from  the other.  

Words Set Me Free by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by her husband James E. Ransome also tells the story of the great Abolitionist Frederick Douglas, only this time it encompasses more of his life  not just one part.   In this beautifully illustrated and written picture book we not only learn about where he comes from we learn how he knew from early on that by learning to read and educate himself would he ever be more than just a slave.  I have always been a fan of James Ransome's art but I am also a fan of his wife's writing....how wonderful to have such a team to bring us such wonderful books.   I recommend this book as a companion piece to Glenda Armand's book....they are meant for roughly the same age.   I also recommend it as a book to show children that education and reading are important and can truly enrich their lives.   A must have picture book.....

The Belly Book by Fran Manushkin illustrated by Dan Yaccarino

So it is a bit of stretch that today's book is non-fiction( so I didn't feel comfortable saying my usual "Reference Sunday")  but it is such a cute book I can't help but recommend it. It sorta non-fiction because it does talk about the body etc.... ;)

The Belly Book by Fran Manushkin and illustrated by Dan Yaccarino is one of the sweetest books I have seen that can also teach children about their body.   The rhymes are really cute and sweet and the illustrations make me smile.  This is a great little read aloud that would make a fun story time.   Little kids will get a kick out of it as will Moms and Dads....a must have new book that will be read over and over again.  

Flashback Tuesday: The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond

Happy Valentines Day!  I know I am a little late recommending books for today but I couldn't let the day go by without suggesting something.

The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond has always been one of my favorite Valentines Day books especially because it is more about sharing and friendship----....it is a sweet story of a little girl who gathers hearts and gives them to the people she loves.   This is a book for all ages....to be given to anyone in your life who means something to you.....

Love Twelve Miles Long By Glenda Armand Illustrated by Colin Bootman

Life has been busy lately so I haven't been able to write as much as I would like.   That doesn't mean I am not in constant search of some good book to suggest.

I have always been an admirer of Frederick Douglass the famous abolitionist ever since I did a report on him in school.   So I was so thrilled to find a story about him as child. A story  that helps bring a larger than life historical figures in better focus.

Love Twelve Miles Long by Glenda Armand and illustrated by Colin Bootman is a beautifully told story of a young Frederick Douglass who as a slave was sent to a plantation 12 miles away from his mother. This story tells how she would walk at night just to visit him.  He asks her how she is able to do this as it was a long way, she describes what she does during each step. She sings, prays, listens and remembers.....

As only a mother can, she is able to see her son's true potential.  Ultimately she is the driving force of his escape to freedom and the leadership path he would eventually take.   Ms Armand is a beautiful writer.  I really could feel the love between mother and son, which is a very powerful feeling.   The illustrations by Colin Bootman match the words perfectly, the cover illustration alone evokes such warmth and love that I was immediately compelled to open it up.

This is a great first biography for a child.   It gives history without being preachy.   It should be used as a stepping stone to learn about one of the greatest American historical figures who ever lived.