Cathy Moore

This early chapter book (this is between early reader and chapter book as there are still pictures on each page) is an excellent biographical account of the escape to freedom of 2 African American slaves Ellen and William Craft. The biography provides the account of their plan and their successful attempt to pose as a white man (Ellen) and her slave to escape to Philadelphia where blacks were free. The account is well written and wonderfully illustrated and a gripping account of what African Americans needed to do to be free.

I think this is a wonderful book to use when studying US history. There is a brief description at the end of the book about what happens after they arrive in PA as well as a timeline. This gives students a very personal look into the stress and injustice of slavery that sometimes is overlooked when the subject is discussed in totality. There are many options for further explorations in social studies such as the Underground Railroad, Abolitionists, slaves being separated from their families, etc.… (mehr)