The Buffalo Soldier

by Sherry Garland, Ronald Himler (Illustrator)

Freed slaves who headed West to start careers in the army after the Civil War were nicknamed "buffalo soldiers" by the Cheyenne Indians because of their hair and their displays of strength. A buffalo soldier's account of the bravery and courage of the Tenth Calvary during the Indian wars and the Spanish-American War.

Genres: Picture Books, Historical Fiction, Historical

32 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2006

About the author

Sherry Garland is the award-winning author of 30 books for children, teens and adults.

Reviews

[Monique Franco]

This picturebook illustrates the story of buffalo soldiers. In 1866 Congress passed a law that ordered that there be black regiments established. Since this allowed blacks to be a part of the U.S. Army, many used this opportunity as a way to escape poverty and gain respect. These soldiers faced many hardships due to poor supplies, unruly horses, undesirable assignments, and prejudice. Yet despite this, these men pushed on diligently. This story tells how one man was able to come from slavery, provide for his family, and able to live a full life and have his own family.

[Christine Turner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Realizing that his future lies in owning land, not just being free, a young man raised as a slave becomes a buffalo soldier--a member of an all-black cavalry regiment formed to protect white settlers from Indians, bandits, and outlaws, and that later fought in the Spanish American War. Includes historical note. www.hcpl.net

[Mrs. Hassig · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read and one I will share with my 6-8 graders before the Buffalo Soldier visits our school on the 24th for our veteran's assembly! Beautiful drawings and a story that will inspire students to want to find out more.

[Marcie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story of freed slaves who joined the US Army to serve on the Western Frontier.

[Andria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Using this book as an example for historical fiction with fourth graders. Ok story but doesn't really pull you in.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

A picture book that uses this unique part of American history. The story is slow to develop but simply stated it provides the details to young readers.

[Shelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated work of history covering the African-American Soldiers, more commonly known as Buffalo Soldiers, who came out west to patrol and help establish the United State’s new land after the Spanish-American War. This is a wonderful addition to any elementary or middle school library or classroom and to students reading list to better illustrate this topic that is practically a foot-note in their text books.

[Alli Divin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an awesome book to read to kids for a history lesson or dying Black History Month. I was intrigued by the information given through the account of an African American Soldier in the 19th century and how he made something of himself after being released from slavery.