Synopsis
Describes the childhood, political activities, imprisonment, family, and presidency of Nelson Mandela.
Children's Literature
This engaging biography chronicles the life of South African president Nelson Mandela. Born Rolihlahla (ho-lee-SHAH-shah) Mandela in a small tribal village near the Indian Ocean, the story of Mandela's fight for freedom is one of the most courageous and remarkable struggles of our time. At age nine, Nelson's father died. Mandela then embarked on an educational journey that took him from the tiny village school to the university, where he was expelled for protesting racial injustice. Moving to Johannesburg, he lived in a decrepit shantytown and worked in a gold mine. While continuing his education, he was appalled at the system of inequalities called apartheid, which had been instituted by the white minority rulers, the Afrikaners. Eventually Nelson's quest for reform landed him in prison-for 27 years! On several occasions he could have been released had he given in to the government's unfair terms. But Nelson Mandela's principles would not be shaken. In 1990, after nearly three decades in captivity, Mandela was finally released. He earned the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize and in 1994-the country's first ever completely free election-he was elected president of South Africa. Nelson Mandela's story is one of intense suffering, determination, and self-sacrifice. But ultimately it is an example of the triumph of human spirit and patriotism. Color photographs will greatly add to students' enjoyment and appreciation of this book.