Cline-Ransome, Lesa. They Call Me Teach: Lessons in Freedom. James E. Ransome, Illus. Candlewick, 09/2024. [40]pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-0-7636-8155-5. GRADES Kindergarten–4. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Luminous watercolors show each day of the week, as a young enslaved Black man uses his literacy to help pass on the freedom and knowledge that reading provides. Striking, realistic illustrations and brief text in the young man’s voice make vivid the ways reading and writing helped resist the cruelty of slavery: forging travel passes, passing on reports of Union progress, and conveying strengthening messages from the Bible. This powerful story, set during the Civil War, gives young readers a clear picture of the daily acts of resistance and courage by enslaved African Americans. Back matter includes suggested reading. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired