Editorial Review

Benjamin Banneker, one of America’s greatest African American scientists and mathematicians, grew up free on a Maryland farm owned by his grandmother and parents. He attended the local Quaker school, where his inquisitive mind opened many opportunities. Benjamin made a working wooden clock; became an astronomer and a surveyor; wrote an almanac; helped survey the nation’s new capitol, Washington, D.C.; and became an outspoken antislavery advocate. As part of the continuing Journey to Freedom series, Maupin has created an accessible account of Banneker’s life and accomplishments. Short, uncomplicated text is interspersed with sepia-tone primary source photographs and documents, while sidebars give brief extensions of information without distracting from the story. Includes a time line, a glossary with pronunciations, further readings, and an index.