This Is the Rope A Story from the Great Migration

Jacqueline Woodson's "This Is the Rope" is a lyrical and moving picture book that traces an African American family's journey from the South to the North during the Great Migration, using a single, symbolic rope as its narrative thread. The rope, initially used for play, becomes a tool for packing, a clothesline, and eventually a cherished heirloom, witnessing the family's struggles, triumphs, and the continuity of their heritage. This book is ideal for children aged 4-11, offering a gentle introduction to a significant historical period while emphasizing themes of family love, resilience, and cultural identity. Parents can use this story to discuss family history, the concept of migration, and the importance of objects that hold memories.