Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

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:

• 4 Passages for copywork/dictation
• Notes about punctuation, spelling, vocabulary, literary devices, and literary analysis 
  
• Beyond the Passage and Inside Scoop boxes
• Weekly Reading Guided
• Slingshot Planner and Skills Tracker
• 9 Think Piece questions
• Golden Lines prompt
• Book Club Party Ideas
• 55 pages
• Publication Date: October 2023

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.