Children studying Lewis and Clark probably learn about Sacawajea, but is York ever mentioned? I had certainly never heard of him. When President Jefferson called for an expedition and Captains Lewis and Clark recruited able-bodied men as volunteers, one man went along without volunteering; York. Captain Clark's slave. York was never given a choice. . . .Although in picture book format, I'd give this to older elementary students, especially those studying Lewis and Clark, to give them a different and wider perspective on the event. It's too long for a casual read-aloud, but a teacher could read sections aloud in their classroom with, I think, great results. It's well-written and the author thoughtfully discusses the lack of sources. Recommended.-- "Jean Little Library"
Davis imagines York's feelings as he navigates his role as both enslaved African-American man and almost-full member of the expedition, narrating in a stiff voice that emulates 19th-century prose and also captures the stress of life as a second-class citizen. . . .Harris' illustrations also evoke the flat, primitive style of much 19th-century painting. Compositions frequently place York at the margins or in the shadows, underscoring the fact that he was not a full member of the party. . . .An important, underheard voice.-- "Kirkus Reviews"
Harris contributes a series of well-composed tableaux, portraying each character with dignity while featuring a variety of American landscapes. A picture book spotlighting York is welcome, and his portrayal here is respectful and sympathetic. . . .this picture book provides a colorful introduction to York, a unique figure in American history.-- "Booklist"
This narrative of the Lewis and Clark Expedition is a good introduction to this chapter of American History and provides a unique viewpoint. It would be interesting to compare and contrast other texts in which York was not the principal narrator...-- "PSLA Teaching and Learning, Literature Review"