(3) K-3 Illustrated by Sean Qualls. In 1772, Phillis Wheatley's poems were subjected to an "examination" by eighteen men. This book begins with Phillis's walk to the exam, then pulls back to describe her past, from girl in Africa to slave to educated and talented young woman. Qualls's acrylic and paper collages display a grace and serenity about Phillis even when she's faced with injustice.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Shane W. Evans. The lyrical, descriptive narrative tells, in parallel, biographical information about Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth. Despite the book's title, the "paths cross" moment is anticlimactic, with no definitive historical record of the event. The bold, textured illustrations in blues, browns, and gold are uncluttered and expansive. An appended epilogue gives more information about the women, though no sources are included.

Reviewer: Henrietta M. Smith

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Shane W. Evans. Clinton tells the rousing story of the all-African American Massachusetts Fifty-fourth Regiment, focusing on the heroic action of Sergeant William H. Carney. Carney braces his troops by bravely carrying the flag through battle despite being wounded. Evans portrays the proud regiment dressed in the rich blues of their Union uniforms. Reading list, timeline, websites.

Reviewer: Susan P. Bloom | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2005

(3) 4-6 Clinton covers five hundred years of black soldiers' military service, briefly examining contributions at different points in America's history. Also spotlighted are noted black soldiers in history, including Henry O. Flipper, the first black graduate of West Point; Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., the first black officer to rise through the military ranks; and General Colin Powell. Archival photographs illustrate the clearly written text. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Deborah L. Thompson

(3) 4-6 Using eyewitness accounts, biographical sketches, other archival data, and battle chronologies, this accessible survey highlights the major battles and personalities of each year of the war. The first and last chapters focus on the historical background of the pre- and post-war years. Sidebars provide additional information, while maps, black-and-white photos, and period art illustrate the book. Ind.

Reviewer: Deborah L. Thompson

(3) YA Illustrated by Stephen Alcorn. This chronological collection includes work by such poets as Phillis Wheatley, W. E. B. Du Bois, Arna Bontemps, Maya Angelou, Rita Dove, along with twenty others. The verses, introduced with biographical information, reflect the African-American struggle for equality from the early 1800s to the present. The textured illustrations, done in muted tones, capture the drama and strength of each poem.

Reviewer: Henrietta M. Smith