The Horn Book Guide

PICTURE BOOKS

Grimes, Nikki

Chasing Freedom: The Life Journeys of Harriet Tubman and Susan B. Anthony Inspired by Historical Facts

56 pp. | Scholastic/Orchard | January, 2015 | Trade ISBN 978-0-439-79338-4 $18.99

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Michele Wood. In this lengthy picture book, best for mid-primary graders, Tubman and Anthony sit down for tea. In a chatty imagined narrative, the women discuss their own lives in the context of major historical events. Inspired by a series of dramatic monologues written by Grimes in 1988, this ambitious project is both intimate and illuminating. Wood's colorful, folksy paintings convey much emotional nuance. Extensive back matter adds value. Bib.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen