New York Times bestselling author Kate Clifford Larson visited McCaskey on Tuesday to talk about her biography of Harriet Tubman, “Bound for the Promised Land.” Dr. Larson talked about the book at the high school in the morning and then joined about 70 students for a screening of the 2019 film “Harriet,” a biopic of Tubman, on which she consulted. After the film, the students had further dialogue with Larson on her research into Tubman’s life.
“Harriet” stars Cynthia Erivo as Tubman, with Leslie Odom Jr., Joe Alwyn and Janelle Monae in supporting roles. Erivo was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance.
In “Bound for the Promised Land,” Larson drew on new documents and sources and well as genealogical research to present a humanized portrait of the renowned abolitionist and social activist. Larson has also published critically acclaimed and award winning biogrpahies of Fannie Lou Hamer and Rosemary Kennedy. She specializes in 19th and 20th century U.S. Women’s and African American history.
Last year, a producer of the film “Till” visited McCaskey and attended a screening with students.