Pink and Say, by Patricia Polacco, tells the story of two young boys fighting in the Civil War. Pink is an African American and Say is Caucasian, both fighting on the Union Side. Say is wounded and left to die until Pink rescues him. Pink's mother takes good care of both boys until they are healthy again. The story describes the friendship that grows between the two boys despite their differences for that time. The story sadly ends with them getting captures and separated. Pink was never to be seen again. At the conclusion of the story, the reader learns that the story was passed down through generations until the great granddaughter, Patricia Polacco, writes it down on paper. I loved this book and was very moved by the storyline. The characters dramatize an eventful moment in history and beautifully display that time period of segregation and war. I think this story would be a great supplement to any classroom lesson because it so gently captures the strong emotions of Pink and Say.
Pinkus
Loyal, caring, brave, and young
Son of Moe Moe Bay
Lover of family, friends, and freedom
Who needs support, love, and friendship
Who gives shelter, compassion, and his life
Who fears solitude, prejudice, and loss
Who would like to see resolution
Resident of an abandoned plantation
Aylee
