Book Summary

Be transported through time to the Underground Railroad, where high-pitched screams echo each night. David’s cruel Pa always chooses the same victim. Despite the circumstances during slavery, David uncovers the courage to defy his Pa.

Raised in a hostile environment where abuse occurs daily, David attempts to break the mold and befriends the slave, Jenkins, owned by his Pa. Fighting against extraordinary times and beliefs, David attempts to lead Jenkins to freedom with no regard for his own safety and possible consequences dealt out by his Pa.

Review

It seems like a rarity that we have books now that incorporate significant events in American history for kids. Mainly due to our PC culture diverting from moments that might have been horrible, it's so important to educate our children of the past to understand where we came from to progress forward for a better future. Not only that but there is so much that has happened in our history that seems like they don't learn about anymore.

Even though slavery is a tough subject, it's still a part of history that has so many stories that can be told. As horrible as we have learned about the bad part of it, when you read a story like The Golden Pathway, it teaches children about the Underground Railroad which was a significant part that tried to free slaves and the people who risked their lives to help them.

Being told from the perspective of a child I thought had more of an impact that really made this book inspiring. Beautifully written as well complemented with its illustrations, I thought not only was this a wonderful story being told but the lessons of character and humility of what one person would sacrifice for another really deserves praise. For such a serious topic, I felt it was written eloquently capturing that childlike innocence but comprehensive for their age range.

The recommended age for this book is 8-12 which I agree with. I would definitely recommend this book. Her ability to blend history storytelling makes this a great read that not only kids will like but adults as well.

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Publication date: 8/12/2010
Pages: 24

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