The original White House was was so big that its construction required the help of local workers, immigrants, and even slaves, whose masters hired them out for five dollars a month. This book highlights the plight of the slaves, who didn't earn a penny for their help in clearing the forest, making the bricks, and carrying the stones. It was back-breaking work that did have one payoff in the end: some of those who stayed on were trained to do more detailed work, thus becoming specialists and finally earning the pay that let them buy their freedom. All because they helped build the White House.
Brick by Brick imparts some little-known information about the original White House. The ending is inspirational, as some of the slaves did earn their freedom, although it may be unclear to younger readers and could require more explanation. Although the rhythm was off in some places, and the rhymes didn't always work, for the most part it's still a pleasure to read, both aloud and silently, and the pictures are a nice complement to the narrative. An afterword provides further information.
EL (K-3) -- ESSENTIAL. Reviewed by: Caryn
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