Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria

Hicks, Kyra E. 2007. Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria. Illustrated by Lee Edward Fodi.

Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria is the picture book biography of Martha Ann Ricks. Born into slavery, Martha Ann's life seemed predetermined. Not many slaves could expect freedom in their lifetime. It seemed that if you were born a slave, you would die a slave. But Martha Ann's father, who was a free man, was equally determined to buy his family's freedom. The news that excites this family the most is that of an American Colonization Society who helps slaves make a new start in Liberia. Even with that hope--or promise--to help them through the hard times, they know it won't be easy. But determination and hardwork prevails. When Martha Ann is twelve, her father is finally able to buy his family out of slavery for $2, 400. The family begins their journey to Liberia in 1830. Martha Ann's favorite thing about her new home--other than the freedom itself--is her opportunity to learn in a real classroom. Life isn't always easy, but Martha Ann learns to persevere and stay strong. In good times and bad, she learns to stay focused, stay strong, stay true to herself. As the title clearly states, this book is about Martha Ann's creation of a quilt in honor of Queen Victoria. Martha Ann wanted to show her appreciation of freedom to the queen--a queen whose navy protects the shores preventing slave slips from trying to recapture these Africans. She not only wants to make this quilt, she wants to present the quilt to the queen herself. Saving the money for the trip won't be easy, but Martha Ann is used to hardwork. Can determination see her through another impossible dream?

Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria is about a girl (and woman) who dreams big--whether she is dreaming of freedom, of education, or a chance to visit the queen--her heart and mind know no limits. She can do anything she wants because of her inner strength and determination. It is an enjoyable book that tells an important story.

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