About this item
Imprisoned for twenty-seven years for protesting against South Africa's system of apartheid, Nelson Mandela was elected the nation's first black president and became known as one of the greatest world leaders in recent memory. His work to end apartheid and unify the people of South Africa has influenced campaigns for human rights around the world. This biography profiles his long, remarkable life, beginning with his boyhood, education, and early involvement with the African National Congress. Young readers will be inspired by Mandela's extraordinary courage, leadership, and capacity for forgiveness.
About the Author
From Thompson-Gale: "Something About the Author"I have always loved books. My favorite, was an oversized complete Grimm's Fairy Tales with beautiful illustrations, which I lost when my family moved to the United States. I was fascinated by the stories of the tailor who went up against a giant, and clever Hans, who wasn't so clever as well as the more traditional princess stories. When I was about thirteen, after spending a summer in the library reading Paul Zindel and Judy Blume among other authors, I announced to my best friend that I was going to be a writer. I didn't decide what I wanted to write until I read "The Friends" by Rosa Guy. I had recently moved to Brooklyn, NY, and the book spoke to my situation precisely. It remains one of my favorite books. I started writing for children then, and never stopped. I had early interest from publishers from the moment I began submitting stories at the age of 21, but I didn't put in the work necessary to become published until my late twenties. "Angel's Grace" was largely written while I was on maternity leave with my first child. It was inspired by my mother (the redhead) and my husband. Because I have very young children, I work when they sleep, which, sadly, is very little.