Hope's Gift

Hope's Gift
By KELLY STARLING LYONS
Illustrated by DON TATE

During the first Christmas of the Civil War, Hope has to say a heartbreaking goodbye. Her father is running away to help bring freedom to their people. But before he escapes, he gives Hope a special gift to remind her that change is on the way. The battle rages and life gets even tougher for Hope and her family but she clings to the memory of her father’s words and the sound she hears when she listens to her keepsake. Then one day, President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation. Hope’s spirit soars at the thought of finally being free. She turns to the gift from her father and the gift inside herself to find the strength to wait for the freedom she knows nothing can stop.

Published 2012; Hardcover, 32 pages; Reading level 6-8 years