Wonderfully Made
Mary’s Basket
by
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The basket artist welcomed the family and shared, “these Sweetgrass Baskets are the oldest African American artform in the United States. Actually, these were originally used to clean rice.”
So mom commented, “are the baskets used for farming?”
The artist replied, “yes they are and today we have designed so many different kinds.”
Excited, Mary questioned, “how do you pick the right one? There are little ones, flat ones, or wide ones.”
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About the Book
Every Basket has a Purpose, and Every Child is Wonderfully Made.
When Mary stops at a sweetgrass basket stand with her family, she discovers baskets in many shapes, sizes, and designs. As she learns about their African American history and the special purpose each basket serves, she remembers the message of Psalm 139:14.
Wonderfully Made: Mary’s Basket is a warm story of faith, family, and cultural heritage that encourages children to appreciate tradition, recognize their unique gifts, and understand that God creates each person with value and purpose.
About the Author
Sylvia Zachary resides in Southern California and is a retired Engineering Director with engineering degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and San Diego State University. She proudly shares her family’s Sweetgrass basket heritage, honoring its cultural significance. Her book, Wonderfully Made: Mary’s Basket, encourages young people to recognize their God given purpose. Active in local organizations, Sylvia is passionate about inspiring young people to lead, serve, and make a positive impact in their communities.