Susie King Taylor: Nurse, Teacher & Freedom Fighter

School Library Journal

Gr 4–8—Presented in first person, this unique biography details the life of Black Civil War nurse Susie King Taylor. Born into slavery in Georgia in 1848, she was able to be educated by a family friend in secret while living with her grandmother. She used her educational skills to help write passes for fellow slaves, which enabled them to move about the city after hours. When the Civil War began, she and some family members escaped to live with members of the Union Army on St. Simon's Island, GA. While living there, she worked washing Union soldiers' clothing and educating over 40 children who also lived on the island. There she met her husband, soldier Russell Taylor, who was one of 200,000 Black men serving during the Civil War. This true account is rife with adventure, near misses with death, and brushes with the Confederate army and slave owners alike. Students will be amazed at the bravery and strength displayed by this amazing woman; her story is gripping from start to finish. Back matter includes Susie King Taylor's 1902 memoir in full. VERDICT A fabulous addition to all libraries and an important part of history not to be missed. Highly recommended.—Tracy Cronce