Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria

Kyra E. Hicks
Brown Books Publishing (2007)
ISBN 9781933285597
Reviewed by Brianne Plach (age 9) for Reader Views (03/07)


"Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria" is a terrific picture book for kids. The story is based on the true story of Martha Ann Ricks. I loved reading about how her Martha Ann's father saved money in a red box. He was able to get his family out of slavery. My favorite part of the story was when she taught kids at the local mission where her husband Sion worked.

It was exciting when she got to meet Queen Victoria because of her beautiful big quilt.

The pictures in this book are great. The illustrator Lee Edward Fodi does a great job in showing what it was like in the 1800's from the fashions to the hairstyles. More books should be written based on true stories like this one.

Note from Brianne's mom: Brianne loved this book. She thinks the kids at her school will love this story as much as she did.

 

Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria

Reviewed by Beverly Pechin for Reader Views (12/06)

“Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria” is an absolutely exquisite book, written and designed with the author's entire heart.  A touching story of a young girl's life from slavery to freedom and into old age, you will experience a lifetime of insight to the world and how it works. A touch of history is shared, along with a story of courage, survival and love of life itself.

Illustrated with such delightful art work and beautifully compiled, this book is a true must have in any library, personal or school. I cannot imagine any more perfect gift to your child's school library, as not only does this book illustrate the hardships of the lives of slaves, but the beautiful way one young lady managed to survive and even learn from her hardships.

As Martha Ann grows up she is taught the art of sewing by her mother. Taking this art to a perfect art form in itself, she creates a quilt for a woman who lives a life so very different from hers, yet that she feels she has a connection with simply because the Queen has kept her and her family safe from being brought back to slavery. As you see the young girl develop into a woman, having her own family and creating her own life and life's struggles, you realize the impact one's parents have on a child not just as they grow up but throughout their life.

Something as simple as a small, red box can take on new meaning when it portrays your ability to live a dream, whether that dream is freedom or meeting someone dear to your heart.

“Martha Ann’s Quilt for Queen Victoria” is truly a wonderful and touching story that will remain embedded in your heart for years to come.

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