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Meet Addy (American Girl: Addy #1) by Connie Rose Porter

 

Summary (from the publisher): In 1864, after her father and brother are sold to another owner, nine-year-old Addy Walker and her mother escape from their cruel life as slaves in North Carolina to freedom in Philadelphia.

Review: As much as people like to discuss the hard-knock life experienced by the leading characters of the American Girl books, I truly believe no one can compete with Addy. Addy comes from an enslaved family living on a large plantation in bleak conditions in a tiny, ill-equipped, and poorly insulated cabin. She witnesses her family torn apart, family members beaten, and embarks on a harrowing flight towards freedom. Her story is absolutely gripping and horrifying! 

I enjoyed rereading this book SO much! The last time I read this was nearly thirty years ago and I had forgotten just how illuminating and harrowing Addy's story truly is. I read this with my daughters (age 8 and 6) and they had so many questions about slavery, Addy's living conditions, the way she and her family were treated, and more. This is one of the many reasons why I love historical fiction: it is such a great opportunity to learn about a time period through a fictional lens. This book prompted some great discussions with my kids about slavery, the mistreatment of black people historically in our country, how the roots of racism started at the very beginning of our country with slavery, and discussions about the Civil War. I really think they learned a lot and had greater sympathy with historical figures like Addy. 

I'm so excited to be re-reading this series and I greatly appreciate what an important part of history these books shed light on. 

Stars: 5

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