About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing that the world is not always fair and begins asking difficult questions about historical injustice and personal integrity. This historical novel follows eleven year old Gilly as she moves from the western frontier to a Virginia plantation in 1859, where she is forced to confront the harsh reality of slavery. Through her friendship with a young enslaved girl named Rilla, Gilly discovers that doing what is right often requires great courage and the keeping of dangerous secrets. Appropriate for ages 8 to 12, this story provides a vital entry point for discussing the Underground Railroad and the moral complexities of the American Civil War era. It is an excellent choice for parents who want to foster empathy and help their children understand how individual choices can impact the fight for justice. The narrative handles sensitive themes with a focus on human connection and the awakening of a young person's social conscience.
