Hammering for Freedom: The William Lewis Story
The inspirational story of William "Bill" Lewis, a hardworking blacksmith who slowly saved his money and bought the freedom of each and every member of his enslaved family.
Born into slavery in Chattanooga, Tennessee, William "Bill" Lewis learned the blacksmith trade as soon as he was old enough to grip a hammer. He proved to be an exceptional blacksmith and earned so much money fixing old tools and creating new ones that he was allowed to keep a little money for himself. With just a few coins in his pocket, Bill set a daring plan in motion: he was determined to free his family.
Winner of Lee & Low's New Voices Award, Hammering for Freedom tells the true story of one man's skill, hard work, and resolve to keep his family together.
Earn by promoting books
Earn money by sharing your favorite books through our Affiliate program.
Become an affiliate
Rita Lorraine Hubbard is the author of a number of nonfiction books for young adults and runs the children's book review site Picture Book Depot and the historical site The Black History Channel. While researching her book African Americans of Chattanooga: A History of Unsung Heroes, Hubbard discovered William "Bill" Lewis's story buried in some earlier history books. She was greatly moved by Lewis's love of his family and determination to overcome the odds. Hubbard lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee. You can find her online at ritahubbard.com.
John Holyfield is a fine artist whose work has been described as having a strong southern feel that captures the essence of rural life. The main themes in his art are family, spirituality, and culture. In creating this book, Holyfield spoke to a blacksmith/farrier for additional insight about the craft. Holyfield lives with his family in West Virginia. His website is johnholyfield.com.
* "Powerful and uplifting; William Lewis should be a household name." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review
* "A well-crafted picture book biography that belongs in every elementary nonfiction collection." -- School Library Journal, starred review
* "Handsomely illustrated with both vigor and tenderness, this is a terrific combination of words and art. Lewis is perhaps one of those hidden figures, but his determination, resolution, and smarts are all on display here." -- Booklist, starred review
"This is an inspiring and worthy picture-book biography of a man and his dreams fulfilled." -- The Horn Book
ALSC Notable Children's Books - American Library Association (ALA)
CCBC Choices - Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)
New Voices Award Winner - Lee & Low Books
