Freedom Over Me

Freedom Over Me is a picture book that brings to life the stories of eleven enslaved people who were listed for sale in 1828 after their enslaver's death. The book uses actual historical documents - an estate appraisal listing enslaved people as property - as its foundation. Each person's story is told through two poems and original artwork. The first poem describes their daily work and responsibilities on the estate, while the second reveals their inner lives, memories, and aspirations. The detailed portraits and biographical accounts reconstruct the humanity of these individuals, whose lives were documented only as property with monetary values assigned to them. This unique blend of historical document, poetry, and art illuminates the contrast between the harsh realities of enslavement and the rich inner worlds of people who maintained their dignity and dreams despite their circumstances.

Readers emphasize how the book brings humanity and individual stories to enslaved people who were listed only as property in historical documents. Teachers report it resonates with students and sparks meaningful discussions about slavery. Readers appreciated: - The detailed illustrations that show dignity and personality - The poems giving voice to each person's hopes and skills - Using actual slave documents as the foundation - Making history accessible to children without being overwhelming Main criticisms: - Some found the format repetitive - A few wanted more historical context Ratings: Goodreads: 4.29/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (240+ ratings) "The poems help students connect emotionally while learning hard truths," noted one teacher reviewer. A parent wrote, "My children asked thoughtful questions and wanted to learn more about this period of history." The book won multiple awards including a Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Awards for both author and illustrator.

Never Caught, Young Readers Edition by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve The true story of Ona Judge, an enslaved woman who escaped from George Washington's household, demonstrates strength and determination through primary sources and historical documents.

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson A Revolutionary War narrative chronicles an enslaved girl who becomes a spy for the rebels while seeking her own path to freedom.

My Name Is James Madison Hemings by Jonah Winter Through first-person narrative, this account tells the story of Thomas Jefferson's enslaved son and life at Monticello plantation.

Words Set Me Free by Lesa Cline-Ransome The story of young Frederick Douglass centers on his path to literacy and eventual emancipation through historical documentation.

Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine Based on true events, this account follows Henry Brown's journey to freedom by mailing himself in a wooden crate from slavery in Richmond to Philadelphia.

🔸 The concept for this book came from actual historical slave documents Bryan discovered that listed enslaved people alongside items like cattle and household furniture. 🔸 Ashley Bryan was over 90 years old when he created Freedom Over Me, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to children's literature and African American history. 🔸 The book was awarded a Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor in 2017, marking Bryan's fifth Coretta Scott King Award recognition. 🔸 Bryan created the illustrations using pen, ink, and watercolor, incorporating African textile patterns and vibrant colors to honor the cultural heritage of his subjects. 🔸 Many of the names used in the book - including Peggy, Betty, Stephen, and Charlotte - were taken directly from real estate documents dating back to the 1820s.