The book, Kessie's Tales: The Adventures of an African-American Slave Girl in South Carolina, by Kitty Wilson-Evans and Lucinda R. Dunn with illustrations by Jason Curry, introduces youngsters (ages 9 & up) to a long neglected chapter in the history of enslaved Africans in America -- from a child's point of view. Written in the tradition of oral storytelling, this touching story carries young readers back into the early 19th century, into a time where African-Americans were slaves. Though serious in intent, this story has a lighthearted spirit that keeps youngsters, and even adults, eager for the next adventure. Based on the fictional character created by author Kitty Wilson-Evans, Kessie's Tales provides parents and teachers with a gentle way to help youngsters understand; get classroom discussions going about a painful era in American history and its repercussions for today.
About the Author: About Kitty Wilson Evans Kitty Wilson Evans was born in Ft. Benning, GA. Her last two years of high school were spent in Europe where she studied at the Heidelberg Conservatory of Music. She performed in Bach and Mozart festivals and as a recording artist. Later, she returned to Europe for her studies, spending a total of 11 years abroad. She has a BA from USC, Columbia and an MA from Winthrop University in Children's Literature. Ms. Evans has been a performer in rural schools with the SC Arts Commission. As a teacher, she worked with the Chapter I in Lancaster Public Schools and as a professional teacher in private schools. Ms. Evans is a well-known storyteller and slave interpreter throughout the Southeast where she frequently travels to countless events and festivals. Most recently, she was an African American interpreter at the anniversary of the Civil War reenactment. Also, her image has been used by the Department of Interior, National Parks Service. In May 2000, Ms. Evans joined the staff of the York County Culture and Heritage Commission as a storyteller and interpreter at Historic Brattonsville. Less than ten years ago, she made history as a volunteer with her impersonation of enslaved African American lifeways at Historic Brattonsville plantation. Since that beginning, she has worked with staff and attracted other African Americans to the program. In 1998, the education programs at Historic Brattonsville won the prestigious Award of Merit from the American Association of State and Local History, in part due to the program on enslaved African Americans for school groups and the public. Ms. Evans works with school programs, public programs and most recently under grant funding to take programs to preschoolers in Lancaster and Chester counties. The Close Foundation and Oninova Solutions, Inc funded these grants. She has been interviewed by numerous publications and news outlets. In addition, a documentary is being done on her life, due out in 2013. The working title is My Life as a Slave: The Kitty Wilson Evans Story. Kitty Wilson Evans lives in Lancaster, South Carolina and is the mother of two adult daughters. For more information, visit www.KessiesTales.com.