Nonfiction- Maritcha. A 19th Century Girl

Maritcha. A Nineteenth-Century American Girl

Author- Tonya Bolden

Nonfiction

Coretta Scott King Award

Non-Violent Social Change Honor

Based on an actual memoir written by Maritcha Remond Lyons, who was born and raised in New York City, this story tells what it was like to be a black child born free during the days of slavery. Everyday experiences are connected with hight-point moments, such as visiting the U.S.'s first world's fair. Also included are the Draft Riots of 1863, when Maritcha and her siblings fled to Brooklyn while her parents stayed behind to protect their home. The book concludes with her fight to attend a whites-only high school in Providence, Rhode Island, and her triumphant victory, making her the first black person in its graduating class.

 As an African American woman this type of book is always powerful to me. This particular book was a good read. It is full of historical moments and full of information. I would recommend it to all age groups. The book includes photographs of Maritcha, her family, and friends, as well as archival and contemporary maps, photographs, and illustrations.I think younger students will enjoy the pictures that are in the book. While older students will appreciate that it is an informational book that will capture and hold their interest.

As a book talk hook I would use pictures and memorabilia that are is shown in this book. I would let students know that it is an easy yet interesting read. Furthermore they will walk away with a lot of knowledge. I would end my book talk with this quote from Maritcha Lyons- " To do the best for myself with the view of making the best of myself."