If you haven’t had the opportunity to hear author Gary D. Schmidt speak, I highly recommend it! Check out his talk for Calvin University’s 2022 January Series here:
https://calvin.edu/january-series/livestream/2022/370u520ia4
SO TALL WITHIN is one of my favorite picture book biographies by Gary D. Schmidt. I love how he recounts Sojourner Truth’s life and legacy with a rhythmic motif for each pivotal shift on her journey. And the stunning illustrations by fine artist Daniel Minter reveal the heart, struggle, and beauty in Sojourner’s “long walk.”
Born into slavery in New York, Truth (originally Isabella Baumfree) was forced to marry a fellow slave. She had five children, one of whom was sold into slavery outside the state (which was illegal at the time). Truth ran away with her infant daughter to the Wageners – a couple who were against slavery. They gave her sanctuary and paid for her freedom. Once free, Sojourner Truth fought in court to get her son returned. She won, though her son was forever scarred, internally and externally. But Sojourner Truth didn’t stop fighting for freedom. She continued fighting for others, dedicating her life to ending slavery, securing women’s rights, and achieving humane treatment for prisoners. She fought for the Truth by walking around the country and proclaiming it. Thank you, Sojourner, for your legacy of love. And thank you, Schmidt and Minter, for sharing it with a poetic, hauntingly beautiful book.
Sojourner Truth never learned to read or write, but she gave powerful speeches that changed minds and hearts. She also dictated the writing of her autobiography and lived off the proceeds. Quite amazing…