★ “Quotes from Lizzy’s autobiography are scattered throughout the narrative, and are given a powerful presence on the page through the skillful use of text and font styles. Repetitive phrasing highlights the connection of her livelihood to her freedom. . . The illustrations are a remarkable collage of painted scenes that are combined with decorative paper, fabric, lace, ribbon, braid trim, and intricate embroidery. This creates a three-dimensional presentation that brings to life the creativity and craftsmanship of Lizzy’s dresses. . . An essential purchase that will strengthen all biography collections.”—School Library Journal, Starred Review
★ “Schofield-Morrison fashions a poignant tribute. . . . Elizabeth Zunon’s breathtaking and masterful mixed-media illustrations—incorporating oil, paint, fabric, ribbon, paper, embroidery, and appliqué—beautifully capture the artistry of Keckly’s dresses. A dazzling picture book cut through with the thread and thrum of an inspiring but unsung life.”—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
“This picture book biography centers the Black seamstress’s indomitable spirit. . . . Schofield-Morrison offers accessible, starkly rendered prose. . . . Zunon embroiders Keckly’s oft-difficult life story across lush, multilayered mixed-media spreads, featuring a beguiling tapestry of oil paint, paper, fabric, ribbon, embroidery, lace, and appliqué. . . .”—Publishers Weekly
“A handsome introduction to a remarkable woman and her craft.”—The Horn Book
“In this picture book, the use of italics indicates quotes from Keckly’s memoir and differentiates them from Schofield-Morrison’s words. The interplay works well, offering Keckly’s viewpoint within an account that speaks to children today. Created with mixed media, including oil paint, paper, textured fabric, ribbon, appliqué, embroidery, and lace, Zunon’s handsome illustrations suggest the subject’s times as well as her talents. A fitting introduction to a remarkable woman.”—Booklist
“Every once in a while a book is published that is a game changer. This gorgeous book about the story of how Elizabeth Hobbs Keckly sewed her way to freedom is such a book. . . . The content is historical, inspiring, and presents each page as though it was a work of art. The illustrations are truly stunning. . . . Highly recommended for every library.”—School Library Connection
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