Henry's Freedom Box
Written by Ellen Levine and Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
2008 Caldecott Honor Book
This book is based on a true story about a young African American boy who was born into slavery. In the beginning, Henry hoped that his master would set him free when he died but instead he was given to the master's son. As Henry grew he fell in love, got married, and had children of his own. Then, one day his worst nightmare came true and his wife and children were sold at the slave market. Henry knew he would never see them again. He decided to put himself in a box and mail himself to Philadelphia where there were no slaves. His plan worked and he arrived to Philadelphia. The author fails to address Henry's life after or if he finds his family. It leaves much open to the imagination. This would be a great text to use when teaching the comprehension skill of prediction.
Anyone who reads this book will be intrigued by this true and unique story. The thought of mailing yourself anywhere seems so unrealistic but yet it was how Henry was able to escape a lifetime of slavery. This story also does a good job of portraying how life was like during the times of slavery. The author and illustrator were able to help the reader understand how sad Henry was feeling and what a huge accomplishment it was for Henry to escape to Philadelphia - in a box! The life-like illustrations draw the reader even closer into the reality of the story. The colors used in the illustrations are dark and neutral which correctly set the mood.
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