Additional information
by Kelly Starling Lyons (Author), Daniel Minter (Illustrator)
A young girl learns a new meaning for freedom during the time of Reconstruction
Ellen always knew the broom resting above the hearth was special. Before it was legal for her mother and father to officially be married, the broom was what made them a family anyway. But now all former slaves who had already been married in their hearts could register as lawful husband and wife. When Ellen and her family make the long trip to the courthouse dressed in their best, she brings the broom her parents had jumped so many years before. Even though freedom has come, Ellen knows the old traditions are important too. After Mama and Papa's names are recorded in the register, Ellen nearly bursts with pride as her parents jump the broom once again. Ellen is a wonderfully endearing character whose love for her family is brought to life in Daniel Minter's rich and eye-catching block print illustrations.Author Biography
Kelly Starling Lyons (www.kellystarlinglyons.com) lives in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Daniel Minter (www.danielminter.com) lives in Portland, Maine.
Number of Pages: 32
Dimensions: 0.4 x 10.6 x 8.8 IN
Illustrated: Yes
Publication Date: January 05, 2012
Award: North Carolina Children's Book Award (2013)
Award: Coretta Scott King Award (2013)
Accelerated Reader:
Quiz Name: Ellen's Broom
Interest Level: Lower Grades, K-3
Reading Level: 4.5
Point Value: 0.5
