Short Form (All Genres)

Your Name___Pamela Becerra___________________________

Title: The Secret to Freedom Author: Marcia Vaughan

Illustrator: Larry A. Johnson Publisher/Year: 2001

Genre: Historical Fiction

Summarize the content of the book –

A. For Fiction Form Genres—Explain the characters, the setting, theme and
plot of the book.
= The main characters would be Great aunt Lucy, her niece, and Great aunt
Lucy’s brother Albert. Great Aunt Lucy is in her home with her granddaughter
when she notices a piece of a quilt hanging on her wall. That’s when Great Aunt
Lucy starts telling the story of how her and her brother were able to find
freedom back when they were slaves. Back then, she explains how slaves would
use quilts to spread secret messages to help other slaves be able to escape
successfully to the north and find freedom. Her and her brother were able to
successfully find that freedom and start a new life with their families.

B. For Poetry Books: Explain the type(s) of poetry and give examples from
the book of fun word choices, lines of poetry and imagery from the
poem(s)
C. For Nonfiction Genres – Explain the information given, how it is shared-
what design
Explain how the book appeals to children, their interests, developmental levels,
fun illustrations etc. Give specific examples from the book:

This book is leaning more towards 2nd grade and up. Due to the serious topics
and it’s connection to what really happened back then. The illustrations are
really realistic. It’s as if it was a movie. This can appeal to children since it’s a
realistic fiction book. Students will be able to see that and connect with the
book.

Rate the book 1 2 (3)

Explain your rating.

It is a really great book. I do think it might be a little sensitive for some readers
especially younger ones, since they do talk about some tough topics. Such as
family separation, violence and slavery. Overall, the ending goes well and the
characters find their peace and freedom.