For teachers and librarians/media specialists

 

To write Caddy and Ann Find Freedom I carefully researched slavery and the Civil War. My intent was to educate children in grades four to seven about what it was like to be a slave in Virginia during the Civil War. 

 

To help make the discussion of slavery age appropriate, I wrote it from the perspective of Caddy, born into slavery on a very large Virginia plantation. Caddy is aware of the Virginia Slave Codes. She is forbidden to learn to read or write or to leave the plantation without owner approval. Punishments are severe: whippings or imprisonment, but in this story, there is no overt violence, only Caddy’s deep longing for freedom.

 

My book is an excellent way to give students an unvarnished truthful view of slavery and the Civil War. As you know, storytelling can do what facts cannot. Students will feel the heartbreak of slavery while admiring and learning from two inspiring girls who care for each other and stand up for each other through tough times.

When you are denied your right to be human, when your life is not your own, when tears form behind your eyes, then the shining light of friendship can lift you up to a place of dignity and kindness, and your heart will be set free.

 

I wrote this after I finished the book and it is what your students will learn about kindness, freedom and courage.

 

I would like to know how you used my book as a teaching tool. My email is on this web page. 

 

I am trying to help local families and teachers discover the book. An honest Amazon review, even two or three sentences, would make a real difference. Thank you.

Margaret Ann Brown

​

Suggested teacher/librarian resources

 

There is an educational glossary of words at the back of the book. These include words related to the Civil War, slavery and the era, such as Yankee and Virginia Slave Codes. A glossary review should help students increase their vocabulary.

 

If you live within an hour car ride from Longmont, Colorado I have two free author visit options:

20-minute classroom local author visit

 I will answer any questions you or the students might have.

Why did I write the book?  How did I write the book? 

Why is it important to understand about slavery, etc.

45-minute local author library talk

I will recite one chapter from my book, talk about the Civil War, slavery and plantation life in the south, and answer any questions the audience may have.