They Call Me Teach: Lessons in Freedom, written by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome, and published by Candlewick Press. They Call Me Teach: Lessons In Freedom is a powerful and poignant story that explores the transformative power of education as an act of resistance. Ayoung enslaved man, affectionately called Teach, secretly learns to read, write, and perform arithmetic alongside his enslaver’s son Thomas.
The narrative unfolds over a week in the life of the fictional character, Teach, and demonstrates what it takes to live in liberatory literacy. They Call Me Teach is not just about the liberation of a person, but also the literacy freedom of a people who are legally denied the right to read. Cline-Ransome captures the significance of literacy, not just as personal liberation, but also as a collective act of defiance against oppression. Teach’s story becomes a symbol of resilience and hope, utilizing stirring words and strong speech to help us understand the power that comes through resistance, and the gravity of what was at stake as Teach rose to empower a people to read.
Cline-Ransome’ uses lyrical, vivid language and emotional depth to bring Teach’s experiences to life. Through Teach’s voice, readers feel the weight of what was at stake—the punishments he could face if caught, the pain of being seen as property rather than as a human being, and the profound courage it took to defy these barriers. The narrative illustrates how Teach’s determination to learn and to educate others becomes a revolutionary act, turning simple lessons in letters and numbers into a larger fight for dignity and freedom.
James E. Ransome’s watercolor illustrations are equally masterful. He uses the interplay of light and shadow to reflect the dualities in Teach’s life: the hope and joy found in education against the backdrop of oppression and fear. The warm, golden tones of scenes where Teach shares knowledge contrast with the darker, muted shades of moments that reflect danger and the dehumanizing reality of being enslaved. Ransome’s bold lines and striking compositions convey the emotional intensity of the story. This visual dynamic deepens the narrative’s impact, to show both the enduring strength and continuous struggle that was the truth of enslaved African Americans.
This book serves as a tribute to the resourcefulness and resilience of enslaved African Americans, and demonstrates how education was both a tool of survival and also a form of resistance. It sheds light on the courageous acts of those who risked everything to gain knowledge and share it with others, ensuring that the fight for freedom extended beyond shedding physical chains to the realm of freeing the mind and spirit.
With its compelling narrative and evocative illustrations, They Call Me Teach is a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of education in the fight for justice and equality. It is an essential addition to classrooms and libraries, offering readers a window into history and the unyielding human desire for freedom and self-determination.
Authors: Lesa Cline-Ransome
Illustrator: James E. Ransome
Award: 2025 Winner Picture Book Category