Muddy Banks
Written by: Rudy Tolliveer
Illustrated by: Walle Conoly
"The legendary Battle of Sabine Pass, Texas, in September 1863 is the basis for this novel. A 12-year-old slave named Boy jumps off a passing ship, determined to be free. Injured, he is taken in by a transplanted Yankee widow, Bethel Banks, who purchases him and renames him Muddy Boy Banks. Unknown to Muddy, she intends to free him; for his part, Muddy is resentful of his captivity, and yearns to be free like his new Cajun friend, Jo Bear. When the Yankees attack Sabine City, Muddy is confused; he wants the Yanks to win so his people will be free; yet he has grown fond of Mrs. Banks and his new white friends. Tolliver has written a terrific tale, from the humor of Muddy and Jo Bear baking bread to the pathos of Muddy's situation. Her characters spring to life: Muddy's resentment of his slavery and his confused loyalties are well portrayed, yet in terms easy enough for young readers to understand and sympathize with."
School Library Journal Review
Online Resources:
http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/SS/qes2.html
http://www.civilwaralbum.com/misc2/sabinepass04_1.htm
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