Review Detail

Escape from Slavery contains true life tales adapted and dramatized by Doreen Rappaport from historical documents. Broken into five individual stories of courage, this book is an amazingly fast read and very engaging.

Used in a classroom setting, I can see that each story would be sure to spark intense interest. But this isn't just a classroom book -- any child with an interest in history or a penchant for suspense will find this an interesting book.

The first tale is a short one of a slave escaping across a frozen river with her young child. It's a good strong start, but my personal favorite is the last story Two Tickets for Mr. Johnson and Slave about the daring escape of a husband and wife under the very noses of the people who would oppress them.

I recommend this book for ages 8-12, girls or boys. Teachers should definitely take a look at this one as well -- it would be hard to find a book better suited for classroom use.