The Rose Of Wissahikon

Wissahickon Souls, A Wissahickon Creek Story, is historical fiction set in the Philadelphia area in the early 19th century, and is a story of love, regret and reconciliation. The story follows the life of Claire Penniman, a free black woman born to free black parents in Philadelphia. Claire is indentured to Wissahickon Farm at the age of 6 in order to receive an education and escape the yellow fever. Claire, black and female, is an improbable hero who defies racial expectations. Claire's story fills a gap in American memory that marginalizes 19th century African American lives. This novel will appeal to readers who love to enter a time and place where they walk alongside characters they get to know as friends. Though Claire's world defines a person by the color of his or her skin, Claire's destiny is to bear witness to the truth that illuminates the color of souls.