The Black Bard of North Carolina: George Moses Horton and His Poetry (Chapel Hill Books)

Step into the world of George Moses Horton, a remarkable figure in the annals of American literature and social justice, with "The Black Bard of North Carolina: George Moses Horton and His Poetry." Born into bondage in 1797, Horton transcended the chains of slavery through the power of his words, becoming the first enslaved person in America to protest his servitude through published poetry and the first African American to publish a book in the South. This collection, curated by Joan Sherman, features sixty-two of Horton's evocative poems alongside a richly detailed introduction that weaves biography with historical and cultural insights. Published on April 28, 1997, this book not only charts Horton's extraordinary life and literary achievements but also delves into themes of racial justice, religious freedom, and educational equity. Elementary school readers will find inspiration in Horton's lifelong enthusiasm for liberty and learning, and his indomitable spirit in the face of relentless adversity. "The Black Bard of North Carolina" is an essential addition to any young reader’s library, inviting them to explore the resilience and creativity of a man who used his poetic gifts to fight for freedom and express his deepest convictions. This narrative is a clarion call to reflect on past injustices and the power of perseverance.