Lady cake Farm

Mom's Notes: I read this little story on my own a year or so ago. I was very much looking forward to sharing it with the kids. The love that the family members have for their home and new farm, the majestic maple tree, the prized dictionary, and especially for one another make this book a gem to read and treasure. There's a whole lot to discuss along the Freed family's bittersweet journey. The ending was wonderfully "ladycake," and it had Julia googling recipes on the spot! She and Evy made this lovely cake. I think Julia's torch work was a brilliant touch! 

Escape by Night

Mom's Notes: This was a simple, quick read to give us an idea of life for children in the South during the Civil War. It's hard to imagine wartime life and the scenes were gentle enough, yet portrayed a realistic picture for the kids. I appreciated the mention of the soldier's commonplace book, and I took the opportunity to share mine.  Also, with Clay as our new puppy, the dog being a main character was fun and even applicable for the first time! 

Amos Fortune, Free Man

Mom's Notes: We're learning about slavery in America. It's not an easy topic, but it is an important one. Books like this one help to show to perseverance of the human spirit, even in the direst of circumstances. We've also been inspired by narratives of slaves on the Underground Railroad, specifically stories or Harriet Tubman's remarkable life of selfless service and sacrifice. I myself have read her narrative biography, as well as that of Sojourner Truth. Jonny and I both read, discussed, and now appreciate and cherish Uncle Tom's Cabin.