Coretta Scott King Award - Freewater by Amina Luqman-Dawson

 Coretta Scott King Award

Freewater by Amina Luqman-Dawson 

Springfield-Greene County Library's catalog description recommends this book for ages eight to 12.   

This powerful work takes readers on a journey undertaken by countless slaves seeking freedom.  12 year-old Homer and his younger sister endure an arduous journey, ultimately reaching a community of similar-minded former slaves, now living as fugitives.  Rife with courage, turmoil, Freewater reminds us that families exist in numerous forms, and obstacles are often opportunities in camouflage.

I chose Freewater after researching books Coretta Scott King Award winners, and seeking referrals from colleagues that work in Childrens and Youth Services departments; another reason: I had yet to read a book receiving such a prestigious award.  After reading, I feel comfortable recommending to patrons seeking stories of courage and examples of diversity, as well as colleagues constructing displays for Black History Month, and authors of color.

I will be evaluating Freewater's style and language, tone, and accuracy.

The style and language utilized not only creates the plot, but I feel reveals a sub-plot of its own.  When Homer and his sister talk, the author has taken careful consideration to create realistic dialogue that children of these ages would engage; similar consideration when overseers speak to slaves and among themselves.  The efforts undertaken to create realistic experiences and environments through the use of short sentences and paragraphs will appeal to children, and keep them engaged.

Freewater's tone reveals the author's passion for the subject while educating readers. Additionally, respect for the subject, as well as taking young readers' attributes into consideration, displays qualities about the author.  By educating current readers about the mistakes of the past, those lessons can be applied in the future while concurrently preserving heritage and culture.  I feel that examples of Luqman-Dawson's efforts to respect the subject and readers are well done, and will certainly be recommending her work to others.

Regarding accuracy, the author's efforts to research and convey the subject, specifically environments, are reflected. While Freewater is fictional, its subject matter is not, highlighting the importance of representing it fairly and accurately.  Luqman-Jones' efforts make this work highlights the importance of remembering and respecting those who risked everything to obtain a common, universal right: freedom.  

I read this work via audiobook (playaway audio) and enjoyed the content and format immensely!  Listening while walking, I felt like part of the experience along with Homer and his sister.  These experiences have enhanced my appreciation for this subject, and will certainly recommend to patrons who are traveling, and looking for recommendations matching the attributes displayed in this work.

Italie, H. (2023). Freewater book cover. Associated Press. Retrieved June 2, 2024, from https://apnews.com/article/books-and-literature-childrens-entertainment-carole-boston- weatherford-frank-morrison-28c89b2b438458d5807e061818e7c68b.

Luqman-Dawson, A., Hite, C., & Johnson, S. A. (2024). Freewater. Playaway Products, LLC.