Friends for Freedom: The Story of Susan B. Anthony & Frederick Douglass

Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: March 9, 2015

Review

This biographical story of a forty-five year long friendship between two people,who were not supposed to be friends at all, will provide young readers with a perspective on what it takes to maintain a true friendship. At the same time, it will provide information on a difficult and challenging time in the United States.

In a time when not only were men and women not supposed to be friends, and people of different races were most certainly not expected to be friends, Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas formed a strong bond based on their mutual belief that all people should be treated the same.

The text in the story is easy to understand and is accompanied by historically accurate watercolor illustrations that clearly show the strong emotions of both friends as they face adversity and challenges to fight for their cause of equal rights.

The backmatter provides additional information that is very interesting. From the author's research note that explains in depth when the author used her imagination in the story versus factual information, to the illustrator's note on how she researched the clothing of the time period, much information is provided that enhances and enlightens the story.

This book would make a great addition to any library. It would be an excellent choice for a read aloud providing plenty of topics for discussion among students.

Overall Book Score: very good