The North Star's Promise

The North Star's Promise

Written from the viewpoint of Harriett Tubman as she leads slaves to freedom.

“Come on now, Mammy. Hush, little ones. We done made it to the river of safety. The Master call you property, and think of us as less than women—say we dogs to be whipped and sold, just like these here good pups could sell for coins. But I tell you, honey, no Master’s whip got the power to reach you now. He strip you of your kin and strip you of your name, but he can’t strip the hope outta your soul.

These good Quaker people will give us rest and bread. And look at your pups—small and brave, just like you. We got news from your husband, your Daddy. He’s up in the Northern Star, waiting for his family, waiting on Freedom’s shore. We ain’t done yet, but the hardest part is behind us. Keep your eyes on that North Star, Mammy. When we get to the Promised Land, we gon’ sing a song of reunion that the whole world gon’ hear. Move fast, now. Dawn is restless.”

Click here to visit Day 19

Comments

Samsonite – Making a Strong Case for Human Evolution – Click image to purchase

Sigma Medolf is a polymath, a person who has a wide variety of interests and abilities, but is primarily self-taught. Sigma has one or more learning disabilities that could prevent him from achieving many of his longterm goals despite early successes that enabled him to become financially self-sufficient at a young age. Over time, Sigma forges his way to Stanford University and becomes part of a prize-winning team responsible for the conception of a system intended to help humans evolve at a quicker pace in order to keep up with the scientific and technological achievements they’ve created . Samsonite, the novel, focuses on ways in which individuals with alternative learning styles can harness their creativity to achieve results beyond those of their more traditionally-schooled counterparts to create systems needed to help humanity as well as save our fragile planet.

A Victorious Life - Click image to purchase from Amazon

“ A Victorious Life ” is a deeply moving and richly layered novel that explores themes of love, creativity, family, ambition, and legacy. The story follows Ted Arundson, an artist and writer, as he reflects on his life’s journey, grapples with aging, and works to leave a meaningful legacy. Rothacker masterfully blends semi-autobiographical elements with fiction, creating a narrative that feels both personal and universal. The novel celebrates resilience and creativity, showcasing Ted’s artistic achievements, including his National Book Award win for Predictions, his musical Hart, Broken, and his Bedford Falls model project. It also delves into Ted’s relationships with his wife Helen, his children, and his grandchildren, capturing moments of love, loss, and reconciliation with poignant authenticity. Helen’s battle with Alzheimer’s and her passing are handled with grace, offering a touching exploration of grief and memory. Ted’s efforts to establish a family foundation in Helen’s honor further underscore the novel’s themes of giving back and nurturing future creativity. Rothacker’s prose is elegant and introspective, weaving vivid memories, philosophical musings, and emotional depth into the narrative. The novel’s pacing allows readers to fully immerse themselves in Ted’s world and appreciate the nuances of his journey. Supporting characters, including Helen and Ted’s granddaughter Gail, who writes a bestselling biography of him, add richness to the story. A Victorious Life is a celebration of the human spirit, a testament to the power of love and creativity, and a reminder that one’s impact can resonate far beyond their lifetime. It is a heartfelt and thought-provoking novel that inspires introspection and appreciation for life’s victories, big and small.