Bibliography:
McKissack, Patricia C. 2008. Stitchin’ and Pullin': A Gee’s Bend Quilt. Ill. Cabrera, Cozbi A. New York: Random House. ISBN: 9780375931635
Review:
Patricia C. McKissack’s Stitchin’ and Pullin’ a Gee’s Bend Quilt tells the story of a young girl growing up in a community of quilters. The story is based on true events and the people of Gee’s Bend Alabama. As she grows, Baby Girl listens to the women tell stories, learns about the Civil Rights Movement and listens to hymns until it is her turn to learn to quilt. McKissack uses free-verse narrative to piece the story together. Students will relate to the growing up process-wanting to take part in grown-up activities but having to wait until their parents or grandparents deem them ready. The poems are meant to help readers not only learn about the history of the Gee’s Bend quilt but are also a reflection on the rich history of this community. Cozbi A. Cabrera has illustrated the poems in rich, thick color on canvas. The images of the quilts and women are beautiful and create a sense of warmth and love. The book contains an informative introduction by Matt Arnett and a personal note from McKissack explaining her experiences within this community.
Poem Selection:
Stitchin’ and Pullin’ is a story and will need to be read as a story. This is a perfect book to use when learning about the Civil Rights movement. After reading the book, students could write a personal narrative and then create a quilt to illustrate the story. The story could also be used for art class. The Boise Art Museum has excellent lesson plans and curriculum connections on their website.
Where to Start
Today,
Grandma winked at me.
There is a promise in her smile.
“It is your time,” she says,
“to quilt your own quilt.”
“How did you begin your first quilt?”
I ask Mama.
She is getting ready for work
And the long drive over to Camden.
“Look for the heart.”
She pulls me close.
“When you find the heart,
Your work will leap to life…
strong
beautiful, and
independent.”
No comments:
Post a Comment