The Emancipation of Grandpa Sandy Wills

“This picture book comes as some textbooks characterize Africans who were kidnapped during the transatlantic slave trade as ‘immigrants’ and ‘migrant workers'” Cheryl says. “As a proud descendant of Africans who fought mightily against slavery during The Civil War, it’s important that I do my part to set the record straight.” Wills’ first biography Die Free: A Heroic Family History(2010 Bascom Hill Publishing Group) delivered a captivating narrative filled with historical records that traced her father’s bloodline from modern day New York City to 19th century slave plantations in Tennessee. The success of this biography ignited the demand for a new picture book reaching younger students and helping educators teach the value and practice of tracing family roots. Researching family roots is valuable to students and families. Studies have shown that the more children know about their family’s history, the stronger their sense of control over their lives and the higher their self-esteem, which is a building block for academic success. When educators partner with families on this activity, it’s an innovative and thoughtful approach to family engagement that’s linked to learning. Cheryl Wills is an anchor and senior reporter for Time Warner Cable’s Flagship national news network New York One News. She joined the cable news network during its launch in 1992. She lives in a New York City suburb with her husband and son. Her website is www.diefreethebook.com. Lightswitch Learning has been a partner to parents and educators for more than 40 years to providing the highest quality family resources and educational materials. Our mission is to help parents and students be the best they can be, and to provide the information parents need to help their children succeed socially, emotionally and physically. www.lightswitchlearning.com.