Former slave, impassioned abolitionist, brilliant writer, newspaper editor and eloquent orator whose speeches fired the abolitionist cause, Frederick Douglass (1818–1895) led an astounding life. Physical abuse, deprivation and tragedy plagued his early years, yet through sheer force of character he was able to overcome these obstacles to become a leading spokesman for his people. In this, the first and most frequently read of his three autobiographies, Douglass provides graphic descriptions of his childhood and horrifying experiences as a slave as well as a harrowing record of his dramatic escape to the North and eventual freedom. Published in 1845 to quell doubts about his origins — since few slaves of that period could write — the Narrative is admired today for its extraordinary passion, sensitive and vivid descriptions and storytelling power. It belongs in the library of anyone interested in African-American history and the life of one of the country's most courageous and influential champions of civil rights.
Frederick Douglass
The Slingshot is a bi-monthly digital downloadable product that features copywork and dictation passages from a specific novel. It is geared toward teens ages 15–18 and is the indispensable tool for Brave Writer parents who want to teach language arts in a natural, literature-bathed context.
This guide contains the following features:
How does the Slingshot fit into the Brave Writer complete language arts program? Learn more on our Getting Started page.
All products are digital and downloadable. All sales are FINAL. No refunds.
About the book
Former slave, impassioned abolitionist, brilliant writer, newspaper editor and eloquent orator whose speeches fired the abolitionist cause, Frederick Douglass (1818–1895) led an astounding life. Physical abuse, deprivation and tragedy plagued his early years, yet through sheer force of character he was able to overcome these obstacles to become a leading spokesman for his people. In this, the first and most frequently read of his three autobiographies, Douglass provides graphic descriptions of his childhood and horrifying experiences as a slave as well as a harrowing record of his dramatic escape to the North and eventual freedom. Published in 1845 to quell doubts about his origins — since few slaves of that period could write — the Narrative is admired today for its extraordinary passion, sensitive and vivid descriptions and storytelling power. It belongs in the library of anyone interested in African-American history and the life of one of the country's most courageous and influential champions of civil rights. – Amazon
A note about content
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass is an eyewitness account of Frederick Douglass’s experience as an enslaved person, wherein abuse, racism, violence, depression, danger, and death were ever present. Through the storm, ultimately, the book affirms tremendous healing and love and safety and the dignity of every human being. By using a book such as this as a teaching tool to foster understanding and growth, the intimate nature of language and history blend to provide a context in which to discuss this important and shameful aspect of American history. You, as the parent, can decide how far you want to step into the room of discourse with your teens as you explore these works. We encourage parents to read ahead in order to be prepared for deep conversations with your teens. (For additional information, please see the Inside Scoop box in Week One that offers a note on race.)
Purchase the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass novel here.
This Slingshot is a part of the Classics Year-Long Slingshot program. Purchase here.
Find related books in the Brave Writer Book Shop: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
The Slingshot guides teens in literary analysis of classic and contemporary literature.
Even if your teen has never analyzed literature before... We’ve got you—and your college-bound teens—covered!
Our year-long program includes five month-long lesson plans.
Each handbook is based on a novel and immerses your teen in the world of:
Each handbook contains:
Detailed notes to establish the context of the novel (book not included)
Four passages taken from the novel for copywork and dictation
Easy-to-follow instructions to teach writing elements found in the passages
Examination of grammar and punctuation
Additional notes that go beyond the passage
Nine "think piece" questions—for discussion and writing
Book club party ideas
Copywork passages on separate printable pages
Four-color design that looks gorgeous on tablets or printed at home
Start any time by selecting one of the lists below from the drop-down menu when you add to cart. Enjoy the five Slingshots in any order.
Classics:
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass
Animal Farm by George Orwell
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Contemporary:
The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Swing by Kwame Alexander
We encourage you to review the books yourself to be certain that you are comfortable with the content before giving them to your teens.
Delivery: After purchase, the Slingshots are available in your Brave Writer online account. Each handbook (40-50 pages) is a non-consumable PDF and can be used with multiple teens—no need to purchase additional copies.
Want a print copy? Go to the front of the line at the Homeschool Printing Company with a special Brave Writer offer. Order here.
Note: The Slingshot is one part of the College Prep Writers Bundle.
All products are digital and downloadable. All sales are FINAL. No refunds.
Find related books in the Brave Writer Book Shop:
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More items in the 2024-2025 Slingshot Books (Classics & Contemporary collections) list:
