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VOYA
In 1848, with slavery at its height in Georgia, slaves William and Ellen Craft made plans to flee north. Ellen, who could pass for white, cut her hair and donned the clothing of a young gentleman. William posed as her personal slave. Their dangerous journey took them first to Philadelphia, then to Boston, and ultimately to England. With the aid of a network of abolitionists and free blacks, they learned to read and write, lectured about their flight, and worked hard to support themselves. After the Civil War, they returned to Georgia to establish a school for former slaves. The Fradins are careful historians and reliable researchers. Notes, bibliography, time line, and copious illustrations add to the book's usefulness. William and Ellen's frequently quoted words are from their own written account, so that these adventurous ex-slaves speak in a formal, somewhat-stilted nineteenth-century manner. The authors do not need to dramatize an already dramatic story, but their desire to be complete and accurate sometimes makes the book dry and plodding. The Crafts' resourcefulness comes through clearly, along with their determination to shake off their well-meaning patrons and become independent. Their admirable story will appeal to readers who are interested in African American and Civil War history, need a good biography, or just want a true tale of courage. The book is a natural resource for that perennial assignment to dress up as an historical figure and present his or her life story. Green glasses like Ellen's will be in demand. VOYA CODES: 4Q 3P M J (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Will appeal with pushing; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, definedas grades 7 to 9). 2006, National Geographic, 96p.; Index. Illus. Photos. Maps. Biblio. Source Notes. Chronology., Ages 11 to 15.—Kathleen Beck
Overview
What would it take for slaves to escape from slavery in the Deep South, 1,000 miles from freedom and then on to England during the period of the Fugitive Slave Act? For most slaves the thought of escape was unimaginable. But fear did not stop Ellen and William Craft from chasing freedom.
An inspiring and riveting story of two amazing people stopping at nothing to fight for freedom and racial equality, this thrilling true tale chronicles Ellen and William Craft's lives from their...