Description
Book Synopsis: A New York Times Notable Book A powerful historical picture book about the child of founding father Thomas Jefferson and the enslaved Sally Hemings.
In an evocative first-person account accompanied by exquisite artwork, Winter and Widener tell the story of James Madison Hemings’s childhood at Monticello, and, in doing so, illuminate the many contradictions in Jefferson’s life and legacy. Though Jefferson lived in a mansion, Hemings and his siblings lived in a single room. While Jefferson doted on his white grandchildren, he never showed affection to his enslaved children. Though he kept the Hemings boys from hard field labor—instead sending them to work in the carpentry shop—Jefferson nevertheless listed the children in his “Farm Book” along with the sheep, hogs, and other property. Here is a profound and moving account of one family’s history, which is also America’s history.
An author’s note includes more information about Hemings, Jefferson, and the author’s research.
“This gentle, emotional book is a reminder that many presidents’ biographies have distressing aspects. . . . A simple but historically solid introduction to some of the moral crises slavery presented for our nation.” --The New York Times
“Through a poignant first-person monologue, Winter imagines the peculiar upbringing of Virginia slave James Madison Hemings, son of Thomas Jefferson and his enslaved mistress, Sally Hemings.”—Bulletin, starred review
Details
Experience the captivating story of James Madison Hemings, the child of renowned founding father Thomas Jefferson and the enslaved Sally Hemings. In the enthralling pages of "My Name Is James Madison Hemings," Winter and Widener shed light on the contradictions in Jefferson's life and legacy. Delve into this powerful historical picture book filled with exquisite artwork, as it unveils a childhood lived in the shadow of Monticello's lavish mansion. While Jefferson showered affection on his white grandchildren, his enslaved children, including James Madison Hemings, were confined to a single room. Discover the profound and moving account that intertwines one family's history with America's tumultuous past.
Unveiling the complexities of slavery in our nation's history, this book is a valuable resource for understanding the moral crises that haunted our past. As The New York Times puts it, "This gentle, emotional book is a reminder that many presidents’ biographies have distressing aspects... A simple but historically solid introduction to some of the moral crises slavery presented for our nation." Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as Winter's poignant first-person monologue delves into James Madison Hemings' unique upbringing as a Virginia slave, shedding light on a chapter of history often overlooked.
Do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this thought-provoking tale. Learn about the struggles and triumphs of James Madison Hemings and gain a new understanding of the complexities that shaped our nation. Order your copy of "My Name Is James Madison Hemings" today and explore this captivating story that intertwines personal history with the rich tapestry of America's past.
Order now and embark on a journey through history unlike any other!
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