Sweet Dreams, Sarah
Vivian Kirkfield, Author
Chris Ewald, Illustrator
Creston Books, Fiction,
Suitable for Ages: 4-8
Themes: Inventor, African-American woman, Patent, Sarah E. Goode, Cabinet bed, Post Civil War history
Opening: “Before the Civil War, Sarah obeyed her owner. / Hurry up. / Eyes down. / Don’t speak.”
Publisher’s Synopsis:
Sarah E. Goode was one of the first African-American women to get a US patent. Working in her furniture store, she recognized a need for a multi-use bed and through hard work, ingenuity, and determination, invented her unique cupboard bed. She built more than a piece of furniture. She built a life far away from slavery, a life where her sweet dreams could come true.
Why I like this book:
Vivian Kirkfield has written a compelling story about a gutsy African-American woman and a true trailblazer who built and patented her cabinet bed in 1885 — before women had the right to vote.
Kirkfield’s well-researched story shows the hurdles black women had to overcome to own a store, become an inventor and obtain a patent. Make sure you check out the back matter which provides more detailed information for discussion about Sarah Goode, the time period in which she lived in Chicago, and other notable patent holders who were also African-American women.
Kirkfield’s lyrical text is beautiful and emotional. Her narrative showcase’s Sarah’s relentless determination to actualize her dreams and earn an important place in African-American history. Chris Ewalds’s rich illustrations add another layer of beauty to Sarah’s remarkable story.
Resources: Encourage children to draw a picture of something they’d like to invent. Visit Kirkfield at her website. There is a Teachers’ Guide available for download.
Vivian Kirkfield: Writer For Children – Reader Forever. Even as a young child, I knew that books would always be an important part of my life. They were my window on the world.
When I grew up, I realized how important it is to step out of one’s comfort zone. Although I was afraid of heights, I went skydiving with my son and parasailing with my husband. Although I am a non-swimmer and afraid of the water, I walked under the ocean with a Jules Verne-like helmet on my head. Although I had never traveled internationally, last year I flew 24 hours to Singapore to speak at an SCBWI conference.
In my school visits, my parent/teacher workshops and with the books that I write, I hope to help every young child become a lover of books and reading…because books help kids soar!
Sounds like a beautiful book, Patricia. Vivian was one of the first writers I met online, long before this book came out. It’s great to see that it is now published. In fact, I think it’s had its first anniversary, hasn’t it? I wasn’t sure what it was about, but you’ve explained it as a wonderful story.
LikeLike
I love how Vivian discovered Sarah’s story and then dove into researching her. It’s so exciting to discover someone in the past who made a difference and no one has heard of the person. Important read for children!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree, Patricia. There must be so many wonderful histories yet to be discovered, even in our own families – like your husband’s uncle perhaps.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have read this. It’s a beautifully written book!
LikeLike
Yes, I agree! It is a beautiful story!
LikeLike
A lovely review thank you Pat of my dear critique buddy’s book.
LikeLike
Thank you Diane. It got so much buzz when it first came out, I decided to wait and give it a little more book love!
LikeLike
This is an amazing book! So thrilled it was recognized by the California Reading Association.
LikeLike
Thank you for telling me. I didn’t realize it received such a wonderful recognition!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, dear Patricia! I appreciate you adding it to Susanna’s PPBF list…and I love your review!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are welcome. You received so much press, that I waited a bit to give it some more book love!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful. Yet another biography about someone whom I know nothing about. I learn so much through picture books.
LikeLike
You will enjoy Vivian’s research into Sarah’s life. I love to read stories about people who’ve made a difference — and I didn’t know them.
LikeLike
I own this book and love it! Great selection, Patricia!
LikeLike
Vivian’s story of Sarah is beautiful and so are the lovely illustrations. I love this book! Sarah’s invention is extremely complicated, but if something didn’t work the way she envisioned, Sarah tinkered with her design until it did. This book shows children that you can do great things by never giving up. The backmatter is very interesting. I learned so much and so will children.
LikeLike
Thank you for visiting and leaving such a lovely comment. Sarah is a great role model.
LikeLike
A great revue of Vivian’s book. I have heard many good things about it. As you know I love books about strong women.
LikeLike
You would love Vivian’s book, Darlene. Sarah is a strong and determined woman.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for sharing! 🙂 https://cchomeschoolers.com/blog/
LikeLike
Such a wonderful book! The author shared a NF PB book today about a 116-year-old black woman who learned to read. Fascinating story.
LikeLiked by 1 person