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About the Book     Day of Tears

Day of Tears unfolds over a two-day period in 1859 and is based on the largest slave auction in American history, known as "The Weeping Time." The story is told through multiple perspectives, including those of slaves, slave owners, and other individuals whose lives are impacted by the auction.

The central character, Emma, is a young slave girl who works for the Butler family. When Pierce Butler decides to sell off his slaves to pay off his gambling debts, Emma is caught in the emotional and physical turmoil of the auction. Her relationship with her family and the Butler children forms the core of the narrative, highlighting the personal and human cost of slavery.

The book's structure, with its varied viewpoints and diary-style entries, allows readers to grasp the complexity and horror of slavery from multiple angles.

Day of Tears is a Coretta Scott King Award-winning book. 

Themes in the book Day of Tears

The Horrors of Slavery: One of the most prominent themes in Day of Tears is the brutal reality of slavery. Through the voices of the characters, Julius Lester vividly portrays the inhumane treatment, the emotional and physical suffering, and the pervasive sense of loss that slaves experienced.

Family and Separation: The theme of family is central to the narrative. The auction results in the forced separation of families, illustrating the deep bonds and the devastating impact of their rupture. This theme provides an entry point for discussions on the importance of family and the human cost of slavery.

Resistance and Survival: Despite the overwhelming oppression, the characters in Day of Tears exhibit profound resilience and a will to survive. This theme can inspire discussions about the different forms of resistance among slaves, from subtle acts of defiance to overt attempts at escape.

Moral Complexity: The novel does not shy away from presenting the moral complexities of its characters, including the slave owners. By exploring the motivations and internal conflicts of characters like Pierce Butler, the book encourages readers to consider the broader social and economic systems that perpetuated slavery.

Activity Ideas    for the book Day of Tears

Historical Context: Provide students with background information (or make a student research project) on slavery in the United States and the specific historical event of "The Weeping Time." This sets the stage for a more informed reading experience.

Discussion Circles: Organize small group discussions focused on specific themes or events in the book. This encourages collaborative learning and critical thinking.

Essay Writing: Assign essays on topics such as the impact of the auction on the characters, the portrayal of family bonds, or the historical accuracy of the novel. This helps students develop their analytical and writing skills.

Role-Playing: Organize role-playing activities where students act out scenes from the book. This can help them understand the emotional weight of the narrative and develop their ability to empathize with the characters.