The Land

Description

Paul-Edward is the son of a wealthy white plantation owner and a former slave mother. Though his heritage is not unusual, for it is the time of the American Civil War, his upbringing is quite different to other black children. His father makes sure that he and his sister enjoy many of the same privileges as their white half-brothers. Paul-Edward dreams of owning land every bit as good as his father's and, after a rash act of rebellion, leaves his family and vows to succeed on his own. Life is difficult for a young black person in 1880s Mississippi but Paul-Edward discovers his own strength, makes true friendships and even falls in love as he eventually fulfils his dream. Paul-Edward is the grandfather of Cassie Logan, the heroine of ROLL OF THUNDER, HEAR MY CRY and its sequels.

Mildred D. Taylor was born in Mississippi and grew up in Ohio. She worked in Ethiopia with the Peace Corps before enrolling at the School of Journalism at the University of Colorado, where she helped develop a Black Studies programme. She is best-known for her Newbery Medal winner, ROLL OF THUNDER, HEAR MY CRY. Mildred D. Taylor still lives in Colorado.

* "Readers...will grab this and be astonished by its powerful story."-Booklist, starred review *"Taylor's gift for combining history and storytelling is as evident here as in her other stories about the Logan family."-Publishers Weekly, starred review * "Taylor boldly explores the throniest themes of interracial relations with honesty, insight, and sensitivity to the pain that is slavery's legacy."-BCCB, starred review "A powerful coming-of-age story of a bewildered boy becoming a man beholden to no one."-The Horn Book "This historical novel brings this period of American history to life."-School Library Journal "The Land is a wonderful novel, telling a family story that will move and enrich its readers. Readers will come away with a deeper understanding of what life in the South was like for African-Americans struggling to make their way in a society grounded upon prejudice."-Children's Literature "Taylor uses stories from her own family's past to create a fascinating and honest look at life's struggles and joys for many African American families after the Civil War. Although this book will be a welcome addition to many middle and junior high school libraries, the fascinating, free-flowing tale will be received warmly by readers of all ages."-VOYA