Sterling Biographies Audiobook By Frances E. Ruffin cover art

Sterling Biographies

Frederick Douglass

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Sterling Biographies

By: Frances E. Ruffin
Narrated by: Cornelius Jones Jr.
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From slave to freedom fighter: that was the long and hard journey taken by Frederick Douglass. Douglass was America's first great civil-rights leader, and he threw off the physical, mental, and legal chains of slavery to become one of America's greatest champions for human rights. It was said that his life was proof that once black people could read and write about their injustices, they would have the power to end slavery.

Frances E. Ruffin explores this inspiring figure in all his complexity, and captures the hardships, prejudice, and violence Douglass endured as he fought for justice.

©2008 Sterling (P)2009 Audible, Inc. Biographies Cultural Heritage Historical History North America

Featured Article: The Best Audiobooks to Help Kids Love History


If you’ve got a young one who is inquisitive about the past, audio biographies for kids are a great way to foster that curiosity. We’ve rounded up 10 kid-friendly biographies of important, diverse, and trailblazing figures in American history, perfect for augmenting and complementing what kids are already learning in school. These biographies are perfect for independent listening, or you can enjoy them together as a family for deeper discussion.

Featured Article The Best Audiobooks to Help Kids Love History
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I am guessing the book and reader were maybe aimed at a children's audience. While I did learn a good deal and am glad I listened, the reader has a very dull monotone that was difficult to enjoy.

Interesting and informative but dull reader

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The story is well written but the narrator is distracting at times. In most audiobooks, the narrators speak as though they are talking. Cornelius Jones speaks as though he is reading from a book. Having said that, the story is great. My daughter and I enjoyed every moment.

Great Story!

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I found this book to be a nice summary of his life, but it was clearly aimed at a middle or elementary school level. Is there a book about Douglas for the adult reader?

Age Relevance

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What made the experience of listening to Sterling Biographies the most enjoyable?

It was very basic. It is a story I want to know more about.

Any additional comments?

Very dry listening. If that's possible. I may try another Sterling biography.

Wanted More Story

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Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes. Wonderful introduction to a courageous person.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Fred Douglass. Because of his bravery.

Have you listened to any of Cornelius Jones’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I was moved by his courage to return to the US even at the risk of being arrested again.

Fred Douglass is my hero

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