Over Jordan

Reach for this book when your child begins to notice social inequalities or asks what it means to be a true ally. This historical novel follows fourteen-year-old Roxana in 1836 as she navigates the moral complexities of the Underground Railroad. When her beloved servant and friend Jess seeks freedom for her fiance, Roxana must decide if she has the courage to break the law to do what is right. It is a poignant exploration of friendship, the systemic injustice of slavery, and the weight of personal responsibility. Written for middle schoolers, it offers a realistic yet accessible look at the risks taken by those who fought for freedom. Parents will appreciate how it humanizes historical figures like Harriet Beecher Stowe while grounding the narrative in a relatable coming-of-age journey about standing up for others.