It was getting about time for me to go home Tuesday afternoon and I heard that there was a children’s book author who had just stopped by to sign her books. Well, I thought, I’d better go see who that is. It was Ms. Deborah Wiles! The author of one of my favorite children’s books Freedom Summer.
Freedom Summer was important in helping me understand Mississippi’s past. Although I am from Tennessee, I had a lot to learn about the Deep South. Rereading her book this morning, I remembered that we have a lot to be thankful for. The many civil rights leaders and fighters have given us a true ‘freedom summer’ every summer. It’s only up to us to look into our hearts and connect with all of those around us. Because of the civil rights era and the brave work done in Mississippi, we have the opportunity to see that just because people may have different skin colors, different cultures and religious beliefs, there is that essential human nature and feeling which binds us together.
I have also read The Aurora County All-Stars, which is now just out in paperback. Ms. Wiles’ story telling ability is so wonderful that I did not even care that this book was for kids! She also has two other books for middle readers: Each Little Bird That Sings and Love, Ruby Lavender. If you have never had the pleasure of reading her books, this summer would be a great time to read these with your kids.
Ms. Wiles is in the middle of her Aurora County Shoe String Tour. All the dates can be found on her blog. Here you can also find out what a Shoestring Tour is all about!
I also learned on her blog that she is a writing teacher, specializing in the craft of personal narratives. Now that is something near and dear to my heart! And she also loves to grow Zinnias! Sigh . . . what a talented lady!
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