Liberty’s Forgotten Hero: The Revolutionary Life of James Forten

Gr 3-6–Though never an official American citizen himself, James Forten, a Black man living in what was to become the United States, was an instrumental leader in the fight for equal rights for all at the time of the American Revolution. The journey ­toward creating a free and equal community was arduous, but abolitionist Forten worked tirelessly for freedom for all. This inspiring picture book biography introduces upper elementary--aged readers to the life of a lesser-known hero of the American ­Revolution. Forten’s struggles for acceptance and liberty are thoughtfully portrayed in both informative text and detailed illustrations. Lengthy paragraphs chronicle Forten’s life from birth, highlighting the moments and experiences that defined his legacy, including being present at the first public ­reading of the ­Declaration of Independence and ­cofounding the Anti-Slavery ­Society. ­Emotion-rich illustrations feature the ­people who were important in Forten’s ­story, ­using colors and imagery that are particularly reflective of the time period in which he lived. Back matter, including resources, an afterword, and a timeline, provides additional information to support curious readers of all ages and to encourage further investigation.