Dawn Caldwell
Dawn Caldwell is a retired teacher with thirty years of service and now finds joy in relaxing on the beach. With thirty-four years (and counting) of marriage to Chuck Caldwell, she embraces her roles as wife, mother, and Gigi. Her new grandson, Ethan, is her heart. She enjoys writing, reading, baking, crafting, and spoiling her yorkiepoo, Brody. Freedom’s Eve is the second book in her Tales Retold series.
Freedom's Eve is a historical fiction children's book that follows Layla, a little mouse living in an antique shop, who is magically transported back to a South Carolina plantation during the Civil War era by the spirit of Hawa, a young enslaved girl. Through Hawa's guidance, Layla witnesses the realities of slavery from New Year's Eve 1862 (when the Emancipation Proclamation took effect) through the eventual freedom that came in 1865. The story explores the daily lives, struggles, and resilience of enslaved people, their rich Gullah culture and language, and their journey to freedom. Written by Dawn Caldwell with illustrations by Bryce Caldwell, the book aims to teach honest history about slavery while honoring the strength and cultural heritage of the Gullah people.
Visit Dawn’s website here.
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Awards and Accolades
Winner of the 2026 Golden Wizard Book Prize
Finalist in the Children’s Book International (CBI) competition
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Praise for Freedom’s Eve
“A memorable story that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through time.” –Linda Smith
“Caldwell brings history alive with insight and detail—more powerful than any classroom lesson.” –Lisa Parsons
“Richly researched and beautifully told, this story of a young slave girl is both engaging and moving.” –Tracy Cole
“A vivid retelling of history that children and adults alike will enjoy.” –Michael Jiles
“A well-written and uplifting read that captures the harsh realities of slavery with truth and compassion.” –Pat Oertel-Barefoot
“A powerful and beautifully told journey through history.
Freedom’s Eve is a moving and unforgettable story that blends imagination with truth in the most meaningful way. Through the eyes of Layla, a curious little mouse, young readers are given a gentle yet honest window into one of the most important moments in American history—the night freedom was proclaimed.
What makes this book so special is how it balances hope, history, and heart. Dawn Caldwell writes with deep respect for the Gullah people and their culture, while Bryce Caldwell’s illustrations bring warmth and emotion to every page. It’s a story that sparks important conversations about resilience, courage, and the meaning of freedom.
This isn’t just a children’s book—it’s a beautiful teaching tool for families, classrooms, and anyone who believes in the power of stories to heal and educate. Freedom’s Eve deserves a place on every bookshelf.” —Goodreads Reviewer
Bryce Caldwell
Bryce Caldwell is the illustrator of Tales Retold: Freedom’s Eve.
Bryce is the youngest son of the author, Dawn Caldwell. He dazzles in the entertainment/film industry, creating stunning paintings, sculptures, SFX makeup, and digital art. Having graduated from the prestigious Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles, his skills know no bounds. He lives in California with his wife, Liz, and several furbabies.