Freedom In Congo Square

Author and Illustrator: Carole Boston Weatherford. R. Gregory Christie
Genre: Historical Fiction
Awards: Caldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King Honor, Charlotte Zolotow Award, 2016 New York Times Best Illustrated Book
Grade Level: Kindergarten - 5th grade

Six days out of the week, the slaves labored; for a day without work and chores was unusual. But on the special Sunday afternoon, the slaves came together in New Orleans' Congo Square. Here at Congo Square, the slaves were free to be, enjoy music, dance, and sing. For half a day, the slaves were free. This book is very moving. It tells the history of slaves counting down the days they could come together. It also tells how some slaves tried to escape and the types of labor they endured.

I would use this book in my classroom. Although the topic may be viewed as a little mature, it is important children are exposed to the history no matter how tough it may be. I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud. This book can be used in multiple classrooms and grade level due to the content. I think it would be appropriate for middle and high school students to use this book. This book could be used to interpret the content, the illustrations, start a discussion, be an introduction to a lesson and so much more.