Awards and Honors2017 Christopher Awards, Honor Book
2016 Children’s History Book Prize Winner
The Kirkus Prize 2016 Nominee, Young Readers
New York Public Library 2016 Best Books for Kids, Fiction
This remarkable story of runaways who sought sanctuary in the Great Dismal Swamp, creates a powerful testament to the right of every human to be free. Author’s note. Acknowledgments include sources of inspiration.
Topics Slaves. United States. African American families. Novels in verse. Slavery. Fugitive slaves. African Americans. Family life. Dismal Swamp (North Carolina and Virginia). History of Southern states, 1775–1865.
SRC Level 6.200000
SRC Points 9.000000
Lexile 900L
Trim Size 8" x 5"
JLG Span Fall
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2016-09-26
JLG Release Date Feb 2017
Minimum grade 5
Maximum grade 7
Reading level Elementary, Middle
Format Print
Upper Elementary/Middle Plus (Grades 5-7)
Upper Elementary/Middle Plus
Upper Elementary/Middle Plus (Grades 5-7)
For Grades 5-7
This collection ensures a steady stream of engaging books for middle-grade readers, offering a well-balanced mix of fiction and nonfiction. Designed to challenge and inspire young readers, these selections remain accessible for those transitioning to more complex texts or who may be reluctant to read.