NIGHT RUNNING:
How James Escaped With the Help of His Faithful Dog
Based on a true story
Illustrated by E.B. Lewis
2008, Knopf
It's 1838, and James has made a secret plan to escape Master Graham's farm, and slavery.
He looks down at Zeus, his skinny old hunting dog - always hungry, always barking. "I've got to leave you behind," James tells him. "I don't want you following me either."
Zeus knows better. When James needs a steady guard while he sleeps under leaves, Zeus is there. When slave-catcher dogs come rushing over the ridge, Zeus is there. When James faces capture, Zeus is there. But the wide Ohio River lies between them and freedom and the two may finally have to part, James free on one side and his dog on the other. Zeus knows better.
Based on a true story of James Smith, a slave who escaped with the help of his dog and went on to become a farmer and Baptist minister, Night Running pairs an acclaimed historical fiction writer with a Caldecott Honor artist in a gripping and luminously illustrated journey to freedom.
See the ITALIAN TRANSLATION
Review Excerpts:
"An excellent way to teach history, this belongs in every library."
- Kirkus Reviews
" Powerful . . . This emotionally charged account will move children and parents alike."
- Publisher's Weekly
"A vividly realized narrative."
- School Library Journal, Starred Review
Awards and Honors:
Parents' Choice Recommended Award Winner 2008
Cybils Award Nominee
*Starred review School Library Journal