An awe-inspiring African American woman! A talented seamstress, born a
slave, bought freedom for herself and her son.
This picture book biography weaves together historical details, vibrant
collages, and the words of her own journals to bring to light the life
and beautiful work Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley, the seamstress who bought
herself and son out of slavery. Lizzy's story of hardship and resilience
offers an untold side of history during a time of great injustice and
change.
Born enslaved in 1818 on a Virginian plantation, Lizzy experienced and
witnessed unspeakable cruelty. When she was sent to workfor a tailor,
her wages went to her master, not Lizzy. However, the beautiful gowns
that Lizzy created attracted the attention of the wealthiest women in
Virginia, even Mrs. Jefferson Davis. With money from her patrons, Lizzy
bought her freedom and her son's freedom working tirelessly stitch by
stitch, going on to design gowns for the First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln
and grow an influentialcareer.
This inspiring story about an unsung hero is beautifully illustrated
with oil paint, cut paper and fabric collage and hand-embroidery by
Elizabeth Zunon that brings Lizzy's dresses to life. Connie Morrison
writes with straightforward honesty and clarity, seamlesslyincluding
research on fashion, life, and politics of the time. The backmatter
includes a bibliography for further reading.
