A Picture Book of Harriet Beecher Stowe

Title: A Picture Book of Harriet Beecher Stowe
Author: David A. Adler
Illustrator: Colin Bootman
Genre: Biography

Summary:
This book tells the story of Harriet Beecher Stowe who is best known as the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin. Harriet was born in Litchfield, Connecticut, on June 14, 1811. She was born and raised during a time when slavery was prominent in America. She was always an avid learner and found early in life that she had a true passion for writing. Harriot Beecher Stowe published many works during her lifetime, but the one that she is best remembered for is Uncle Tom's Cabin. Harriot was very much against the idea of slavery and she voiced her opinions on the matter through her writing. Uncle Tom's Cabin tells the story of a slave named Tom who was being tortured by his master because he would not reveal the hiding place of two run away slaves. The book was originally released as installments in an antislavery newspaper and was then published as a book once the installments were completed. It was a book that changed history because it showed the masses the injustices of slavery. Those who hated slavery now hated it more, and those who once had no opinion on the matter quickly formed one. It is said that in 1862 Harriot met President Abraham Lincoln who upon shaking her hand said, " So this is the little lady who made this big war." Many give Harriet Beecher Stowe credit for really beginning the Civil War.

Making the Connection:
This biography is a great book to use in the classroom for a number of reasons. It is a good example to show students when initially introducing the concepts of biographies and it is great to use when talking about the Civil War. This book also shows students that everyone has the power to make a difference. It teaches children that if you stay strong in your convictions and you fight for what you believe, you can change the world.