Sisters Against Slavery: A Story About Sarah and Angelina Grimke

by Stephanie Sammartino McPherson, Karen Ritz (Illustrator)

A biography of two sisters from a wealthy southern family who devoted their lives to the causes of abolition and women's rights.

Genres: Biography

64 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1999

About the author

Stephanie Sammartino McPherson wrote her first children's story in college. She enjoyed the process so much that she's never stopped writing. A former teacher and freelance newspaper writer, she has written twenty-eight books and numerous magazine stories. She especially enjoys writing about science and the human interest stories behind major discoveries.

Stephanie and her husband, Richard, live in Virginia but also call California home. They are the parents of two grown children.

Reviews

[Ruth Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Sue Monk Kidd's novel "The Invention of Wings", I wanted to find out more about the Grimke sisters. This volume, intended for middle grade readers, was perfect for quickly learning some facts. I liked learning about how the sisters became involved with the Quakers. I also found it interesting that their work towards abolition diversified and soon included working for voting rights for women. I was again reminded that the north was not always a safe place to speak of abolition and I was amazed by their tireless work for the rights of others. One fact that I will remember is how the sisters challenged "the colored bench" within the Quaker church. Though the church fought for abolition of slavery, many within the church did not want to socialize or interact with people of different skin tones.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

My friend Shana mentioned the Grimke sisters as being as awesome as Abigail Adams. I had no idea who the were and asked for more info. Then I went to the library and put a hold on all the books available about them. This was the first book to arrive, and not a bad way to start with a basic introduction. This is a biography written for middle school readers, the tone set in an easy to read story style.

The Grimke sisters were centuries ahead of their time, believing in equality for all regardless of skin color or gender. They spoke up, and continued to speak up, despite the massive mountain of criticism they had to face on all sides, and are unsung heroes of both the end of slavery and women's right to vote.

[Renata · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't realize this was a young adult book but still fascinating story about two sister survivors who sacrificed so much to make the world a better place for everyone. I plan to read a follow up book with more information about the strength and nerve of these two incredible women.

[Bobbi Galvin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Children's book about feminist sisters. Heard of them in another book and wanted to read more.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good read which is appropriate for young readers and yet has wonderful information which is new to even an adult reader.