Voice of Freedom: A Story About Frederick Douglass. (children's reviews).

Voice of Freedom:
A Story About Frederick Douglass
by Maryann N. Weidt
Lerner Publishing Group, March 2001
$5.95, ISBN 1-575-05553-8, Ages 9 to 12

This account of the storied abolitionist, author and suffragist gives young readers a broad overview of Frederick Douglass's life. With Voice of Freedom, Weidt set out to write an engaging story for children by humanizing Douglass, while putting in perspective the institutions and individuals that oppressed him.

Unfortunately, however, Weidt's approach is often at odds with her efforts to convey historical information about the abolitionist movement and slavery. Facts and much-needed clarifications abruptly appear within the story, with little finessing of the historical narrative. The book is not always clear, and in parts, the context is not fully developed. At times, Voices of Freedom feels rushed and chaotic.

The black-and-white illustrations are nicely done and well placed throughout the book, giving a real sense of Douglass's life. The volatile issues--including Douglass's notoriously brutal childhood--were downplayed considerably, perhaps too much even for a children's book.

--Danielle K. Little is an attorney and freelance writer in New York.