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Gr 5-9-Set in 1862 in Virginia, the narrators enhance the poignancy of this story by Andrea Davis Pinkney (Hyperion, 1999) about two siblings, Summer and Roscoe, who are slaves on the Parnell Plantation. Roscoe, age 13, has learned to read while accompanying the master's son to his lessons. He teaches Summer, 11, her first letter by pointing out to her that the scar on her body is really the letter P, the master's brand. Andrea J. Johnson captures Summer's innocence and excitement about this new power and passion in her life, as well as the wisdom of Thea, the slave who can predict the future, and Mama's anger at what she considers her children's willfulness. Peter Jay Fernandez narrates Roscoe's dreams of freedom and also anxiety, as well as the grandeur of Dr. Bates' abolitionist speech on New Year's Eve, and Clem's desperation to gain his freedom. The arrogance of the "benevolent" masters and the indignity as well as forbearance and anger of the slaves are clearly presented in these voice. At times Summer sounds much older than her 11 years. Bits and pieces of the story are not always realized as fully as they could be; the hateful brother-in-law of Mrs. Parnell who comes to run the plantation leaves before he has even been fully introduced, and the ramifications of Dr. Bates' highly controversial speech are never included. Still, the story is engaging, and listeners feel as if they are sharing in the trials and tribulations as well as the triumphs of Roscoe and Summer. This historical novel helps students understand this period in history.-Edith Ching, St. Albans School, Washington,DC
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
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Book Description Condition: New. New. In shrink wrap. Looks like an interesting title! 0.3. Seller Inventory # Q-0786815698