Granddaddy's Gift

The United States has seen some turbulent times in its history, especially for African Americans. Granddaddy's Gift highlights one aspect of American history, the African American struggle for the right to vote. The stars of this touching story are Joe Morgan and his granddaughter whom he calls "Daughter" but everyone else in their community affectionately calls "Little Joe" because she is like his shadow. Joe Morgan is a man that has worked hard all his life and in spite of his 8th grade education, he owns his own land on which he farms and raises animals. He stresses the importance of education to his granddaughter through both his words and actions. When it comes time for someone in their Mississippi community to stand up and attempt to register to vote, Joe Morgan answers the call. As a result of his decision he, his family and ultimately the entire African American community are faced with adversity, but in the process he teaches his granddaughter some important lessons.Granddaddy's Gift illustrates how the freedoms that many of us take for granted are indeed a gift from the generations before us. The illustrations perfectly complement this keenly written story and add a personal touch. The story instills a sense of pride in the legacy left behind by ordinary but brave people that helped to change the cultural climate of this country. I highly recommend this book, not only because it relates historical information but also because of the values the story represents. Reviewed by Stacey Seayof The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers