About This Book
Shane W. Evans's 'Underground: Finding the Light to Freedom' is a Coretta Scott King Award-winning picture book that sensitively portrays a 19th-century African-American family's escape from slavery via the Underground Railroad. With sparse, impactful text and evocative illustrations, it captures the fear, determination, and hope of their journey. Ideal for ages 4-11, this book offers a gentle yet profound introduction to a critical period in American history, emphasizing themes of bravery, resilience, and the universal yearning for freedom. It's an excellent resource for initiating conversations about historical injustices and the courage of those who sought liberation.
One of School Library Journal's Best Nonfiction Books of 2011 A few well chosen words and spellbinding images pack an emotion wallop not soon forgotten in this picture book for young readers about the Underground Railroad. A family silently crawls along the ground. They run barefoot through unlit woods, sleep beneath bushes, take shelter in a kind stranger's home. Where are they heading? They are heading for Freedom by way of the Underground Railroad.
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Discussion Prompts
1
What does 'freedom' mean to the family in this book? What does it mean to you?
2
What were some of the challenges the family faced on their journey? How did they show bravery?
3
Who were the 'kind strangers' who helped the family? Why do you think they risked their own safety to help?
4
This book shows a difficult time in history. What lessons can we learn from stories like this?
5
The illustrations in this book are very powerful. Which illustration made you feel the strongest emotion and why?
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