Friday, May 7, 2010

Book Review ~ Under the Quilt of Night

Title: Under the Quilt of Night


Written by: Deborah Hopkinson

Illustrated by: James E. Ransome

Soft cover: 40 pages

Ages: 5-10

Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks

ISBN: 978-0439750493

Published: January 2005

Price: $7.99

Unsaid words coupled with significant signs to safe houses unravel in this heartfelt story of a young black slave and her loved ones journey to freedom. From deep within slaves brought forth their bravery in their quest to freedom allowing them to trust many along the way. For without the assistance of those against slavery their dreams of freedom may have remained just that a dream.

“Then I see a woman walk through her yard wearing a plain dress. On her arm she carries a quilt to air. She hangs it over the fence, then looks to the woods, just once. I start with all my might. I know what to look for: in most quilts, center squares are red for home and hearth. But these centers are a dark, deep blue. This house hides runaways!”

The journey and success to freedom is greeted by the young slave girl’s glorious singing voice to the heavens. The story of Under the Quilt of Night will leave the reader with a warm quilt engulfing their thoughts of all slaves who journeyed to freedom.

Learn more about Deborah Hopkinson at: http://www.deborahhopkinson.com/

Visit illustrator, James E. Ransome at: http://www.jamesransome.com/

4 comments:

  1. Quilts were a big part of rescuing slaves. This is a good subject. Thanks for sharing.

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  2. I've read about the stories the quilts told. So interesting. Nice review, Donna. This sounds like a wonderful book to help children learn about this era of American history.

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  3. This is so interesting. I never knew about the significance of using quilts to alert run-away slaves.

    This book sound wonderful.

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  4. Kristi, Bev, and Karen:

    Thanks for stopping by. With each book I read about the Underground Railroad I become more and more fascinated.

    Wishing you all a blessed Mother's Day,
    Donna

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Thank for you taking the time out to visit with me and to learn about my historical fiction children's book, The Golden Pathway.

Please be sure to leave your blog address so I can reciprocate.

I look forward to visiting you too.