Minty

 

Schroeder, A. (2000). Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman. Penguin Young Readers Group.

ISBN: 978-0140561968

Plot Summary:

They called her "Minty."

When she grew up, she became Harriet Tubman, the courageous and heroic woman who helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom through the Underground Railroad. But she was just a little girl for a while—and this is her story. Minty, short for Araminta, was a feisty and headstrong young slave, whose rebellious spirit often got her into trouble. She told stories to her doll, released animals from traps, and, above all, dreamed of running away. And when her father began to teach her the skills necessary for escape, she listened carefully, and learned. . . . 

-Amazon

Analysis:

Minty is a fictional account of Harriet Tubman’s childhood drawn from historical records. The cover of the book seems dated, in fact the book was published in 1996. I was wary at first, but when you open the pages, the illustrations are detailed and expressive. Jerry Pinkney made the story come to life, especially in the carefully drawn faces of the characters. This book is carried by Schroeder’s depiction of the harsh reality of slavery and the fierce independent soul of young Harriet. Violence and injustice are markers in the book but there are threads of kindness, community and the power of the human spirit. Schroeder depicts field slaves and house slaves and their inhumane treatment on the plantation, some disappearing “down the river” never to be seen by their friends and family again. It is a difficult task to be true to the ugliness of slavery and still make the story palatable for children. The author and illustrator complement each other in this accomplishment. Minty’s strong spirit and  perseverance are an incredible example for all of us.

Book Reviews:

Rich with melodrama, suspense, pathos, and, of course, a powerful vision of freedom. This exquisitely crafted book resonates well beyond its few pages.

―Kirkus Reviews

 Alan Schroeder's moving story never strays from what is possible in this fictional biography of the life of young Harriet Tubman. Jerry Pinkney's full-color paintings are rendered in pencil, colored pencil and watercolor. Light and dark dance across the pages of this 11 3/4 x 9 3/4" book as he skillfully and beautifully brings his vision of Minty's story to life.

― Cooperative Children’s Book Center

Connections:

Because Minty is about a child in slavery, it is a book that lends itself to discussions about bravery, perseverance, coping skills, community, etc. 

Awards:

Coretta Scott King Award

An ALA Notable Book

This review was created as an assignment for SHSU LSSL 5361.