Do You Know Them? Families Lost and Found After The Civil War Perfect Picture Book Friday

A poignant and moving story about the heartbreaking reality of lost loved ones after the end of the Civil War.

text copyright Shana Keller 2024, illustration copyright Laura Freeman 2024, Atheneum Books for Young Readers

This stirring story sheds light on a painful reality that so many people experienced after the end of the Civil War. Families, once enslaved, were left searching for their loved ones, often not knowing where to look or how to find the information needed to locate mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, or children. 

Lettie, desperate for information about her own family, works hard to save money to place an advertisement in the paper, in hopes that someone, somewhere, may know something about her loved ones. With resolve and resourcefulness, she is determined to help her family, and serve her community, in any way she can. Beautifully written, and tenderly illustrated, this inspirational picture book features actual, historical advertisements, and includes an author's note in the back.

Title:  DO YOU KNOW THEM?  FAMILIES LOST AND FOUND AFTER THE CIVIL WAR

Author:  Shana Keller

Illustrator:  Laura Freeman

Publisher:  Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2024

Ages:  4-8

Themes:  Family, Community, Resourcefulness,  Problem Solving, Courage

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Write a letter, or draw a picture, to send to a loved one who lives far away. 
• For more information about the advertisements featured in this book, visit the author's website.
• Conversation starters: "How might it feel to be separated from family?" "How can family members today stay connected, even when they live far from each other?" ​

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!