Before She Was Harriet

Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by James E. Ransome

by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome

32 pages, 4–8 years; published 2017 by Holiday House

Some picture books make you gasp. Before She Was Harriet is one of them. The exquisite paintings on each page hold your eyes as strongly as the words resonate in your ears. What a brilliant way to reflect on the life of Harriet Tubman by traveling backward through her life. Children will be captivated by the expressive portraits and intrigued by the various names and skills held by this remarkable woman. I quickly added a copy to my personal library.