Are you fascinated by the history of the underground railroad? Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or simply curious about this crucial part of American history, there’s a book on the underground railroad for you. From gripping first-hand accounts to powerful works of fiction, the underground railroad books on this list will transport you to a time of courage, resilience, and hope. Get ready to embark on a literary journey through some of the 20 best books about the underground railroad.
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a gripping and powerful novel that follows the journey of Cora, a young slave on a cotton plantation in Georgia, as she escapes and seeks freedom. This book on the underground railroad presents a reimagined version of the historical network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African-Americans to escape to free states and Canada. Whitehead’s vivid and evocative writing skillfully immerses readers in the harrowing experiences of Cora and other characters as they navigate the treacherous and often deadly journey to freedom. Through Cora’s story, the novel explores themes of resilience, hope, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. This book about the underground railroad is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a dark chapter of American history.
The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a powerful and captivating book about the underground railroad. Set in the pre-Civil War era, the story follows Hiram Walker, a young man born into slavery who possesses a mysterious power. As he grapples with the trauma of his own past, Hiram becomes involved in the dangerous world of the underground railroad, using his ability to transport himself and others to freedom. Coates weaves a rich narrative that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring struggle for liberation. Through Hiram’s journey, readers are taken on a profound and emotional exploration of the human spirit and the resilience of those who fought for freedom. The Water Dancer is an unforgettable and poignant book on the underground railroad that will leave a lasting impact on its readers.
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom is a compelling book about the underground railroad. Set in the late 18th century, it tells the story of Lavinia, a young Irish orphan who becomes an indentured servant on a tobacco plantation in Virginia. As she grows up, Lavinia becomes deeply intertwined with the lives of the slaves in the Kitchen House, where she works and lives. The novel explores themes of identity, family, and the complexities of race and class in the pre-Civil War South. Grissom’s rich storytelling and vivid characters make this historical fiction novel a captivating and thought-provoking read. The Kitchen House offers a unique and powerful perspective on the underground railroad, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of those who sought freedom and justice during this tumultuous period in American history.
The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier is a captivating historical fiction novel set in 1850s Ohio. The story follows Honor Bright, a young English Quaker who immigrates to America and becomes involved in the underground railroad, assisting runaway slaves in their quest for freedom. As Honor grapples with the moral dilemmas of aiding fugitives and navigating the complexities of her new surroundings, she finds herself torn between her Quaker beliefs and the harsh realities of the world around her. Chevalier’s vivid portrayal of the landscapes, customs, and challenges of the time brings the historical period to life, making this a compelling and thought-provoking read. The Last Runaway is a powerful and poignant exploration of the human spirit and the fight for freedom, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the underground railroad and the struggles of the time.
The Mapmaker’s Children by Sarah McCoy is a captivating novel that weaves together the stories of two women living in different time periods. Sarah Brown, the daughter of famous abolitionist John Brown, is a young woman living in the 1850s who finds herself drawn into the dangerous world of the underground railroad as she helps slaves escape to freedom. Fast forward to the present day, and we meet Eden Anderson, a modern-day woman who is struggling with infertility and finds solace in uncovering the history of the underground railroad in her new home. As the two women’s stories intertwine, secrets are revealed, and the power of love and courage is illuminated. This book about the underground railroad is a beautifully written, poignant exploration of the strength of the human spirit and the legacy of those who fought for freedom.
The House Girl by Tara Conklin is a compelling novel that weaves together the stories of two women from different eras. One is a young slave named Josephine in 1852 Virginia, who is a talented artist and dreams of freedom. The other is Lina Sparrow, a modern-day lawyer who is assigned a reparations lawsuit and becomes fascinated by Josephine’s story.
This gripping and emotional novel explores themes of art, identity, and the legacy of slavery. It offers a powerful portrayal of the struggles and resilience of both women, as well as the impact of the underground railroad on their lives. The House Girl is a thought-provoking and moving book about the underground railroad, and the ways in which the past continues to shape the present.
The Book of Night Women by Marlon James is a powerful and haunting novel that delves into the dark and brutal world of slavery in 18th century Jamaica. The story follows Lilith, a young slave girl born on a sugar plantation, who is chosen to be a part of a group of fierce and rebellious women known as the Night Women. As they plot and plan their escape, they navigate the treacherous and violent world of slavery, facing unimaginable cruelty and hardship. This book offers a gripping and unflinching look at the realities of the underground railroad, shedding light on the resilience and strength of those who fought against the oppressive system. Marlon James’ rich prose and vivid storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in the history and struggles of the underground railroad.
The Known World by Edward P. Jones is a remarkable book about the underground railroad and the complexities of slavery in the antebellum South. Set in Virginia, it tells the story of a black slave owner and the people he enslaves, exploring the moral and social implications of owning one’s own race. Jones paints a vivid picture of a world where freedom and bondage coexist, blurring the lines between oppressor and oppressed. The novel delves into the lives of various characters, offering a rich and multi-layered narrative that challenges the reader to confront the harsh realities of slavery and its lasting impact. With its intricate storytelling and thought-provoking themes, The Known World is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and legacy of slavery in America.
The Secrets of Mary Bowser by Lois Leveen is a gripping historical novel that brings to life the incredible true story of Mary Bowser, a former slave turned spy for the Union during the Civil War. Set in the heart of the Confederacy, this book on the underground railroad follows Mary as she navigates the dangerous world of espionage while posing as a servant in the household of Jefferson Davis. With her photographic memory and sharp wit, Mary becomes a crucial asset to the Union, risking her life to gather intelligence and aid the cause of freedom. Through vivid prose and meticulous research, Leveen shines a light on this remarkable woman and her contributions to the fight for justice. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the underground railroad, the Civil War, or powerful stories of courage and resilience.
The Bondwoman’s Narrative by Hannah Crafts is a groundbreaking and haunting novel that was believed to be the first known novel written by a female African-American slave. This fascinating book tells the story of a young woman’s escape from slavery and her harrowing journey to freedom. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the underground railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African-Americans to escape to free states and Canada. Crafts’ vivid and powerful prose provides a rare and authentic glimpse into the experiences of enslaved individuals in the 19th century. The Bondwoman’s Narrative is a gripping and important book about the underground railroad, shedding light on a dark chapter in American history and the resilience of those who fought for their freedom.
The Long Song by Andrea Levy is a powerful historical novel set in Jamaica during the final years of slavery. Told from the perspective of a strong-willed slave, July, the story delves into the harsh realities of plantation life and the struggles for freedom. The novel explores themes of oppression, resilience, and the fight for liberty. This captivating narrative sheds light on the untold stories of those who suffered under the brutal system of enslavement. Levy’s vivid storytelling and rich characters bring this dark period of history to life, making it a compelling and essential read for anyone interested in the underground railroad and the fight for freedom. This book about the underground railroad is a poignant and unforgettable exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating book about the underground railroad. Set in the early 19th century, this powerful novel tells the story of Sarah Grimké, a young girl from a wealthy Southern family, and Hetty “Handful”, the slave she is given as a birthday present. As Sarah grows into adulthood, she becomes an abolitionist and fights for the rights of women and slaves, while Handful dreams of freedom and independence. The novel explores the complexities of their relationship and the challenges they face in a society deeply divided by race and gender. With vivid storytelling and emotional depth, Kidd’s novel shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of those involved in the underground railroad.
The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips is a compelling and haunting novel set in the American South during the 1950s. This powerful book delves into the life of Tangy Mae, a young African American girl living in the midst of racial segregation and poverty. As she navigates her tumultuous upbringing, she grapples with her complex family dynamics, abuse, and the harsh realities of the underground railroad. The novel sheds light on the struggles and resilience of African American families during this tumultuous period in American history. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, Phillips paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those seeking freedom and equality. The Darkest Child is a gripping and emotional read that provides a poignant portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of African American families during the underground railroad era.
The Price of a Child by Lorene Cary is a riveting book about the underground railroad that follows the story of a young enslaved girl named Callie. Set in the 1850s, the novel takes readers on a harrowing journey as Callie escapes from a Virginia plantation and embarks on a perilous quest for freedom. With vivid and emotive prose, Cary captures the cruelty of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. The novel showcases the bravery and sacrifice of those involved in the underground railroad, as well as the unfathomable risks taken by those seeking freedom. The Price of a Child is a powerful and poignant exploration of the lengths one will go to for liberty and the indomitable strength of the human will.
The Good Lord Bird, written by James McBride, is a captivating and humorous novel set in the mid-19th century. The story follows Henry Shackleford, a young slave who joins the legendary abolitionist John Brown in his mission to free the slaves. The novel provides a unique perspective on the tumultuous events leading up to the Civil War, as Henry masquerades as a girl named Henrietta in order to survive. McBride’s vivid storytelling and rich character development make this book about the underground railroad a compelling and thought-provoking read. With its blend of history and humor, The Good Lord Bird offers a fresh take on the struggles and triumphs of those involved in the fight for freedom. This underground railroad book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the fight against slavery.
The Color of Water by James McBride is a compelling memoir that tells the story of the author’s upbringing as a biracial child in a racially divided America. McBride alternates between his own experiences and his mother’s, who was a white Jewish woman from Poland. The book explores themes of identity, race, and family as McBride delves into his mother’s past and her struggles as an immigrant and a single mother raising twelve children. The Color of Water is a powerful and moving account of a family’s journey, and it also sheds light on the complexities of race and the legacy of slavery in America. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the history of race relations and the resilience of the human spirit. This book is an incredible insight into the underground railroad and would make a great addition to anyone’s collection of books about the underground railroad.
The Gilded Years by Karin Tanabe is a captivating novel about the extraordinary true story of Anita Hemmings, the first African American woman to attend Vassar College in the late 19th century. The book delves into the challenges and complexities Anita faces as she navigates the privileged world of the Gilded Age while concealing her true identity. With rich historical detail and vivid storytelling, Tanabe brings to life the struggles and triumphs of Anita as she strives to keep her secret hidden and pursue her dreams. This compelling narrative sheds light on the racial prejudices and social barriers of the time, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read. The Gilded Years is a must-read for anyone interested in the underground railroad and the fight for equality.
The Freedom Maze by Delia Sherman is a captivating book about the underground railroad, following the story of a young girl named Sophie who finds herself traveling back in time to the pre-Civil War era. As she navigates the complexities of race and class in the South, Sophie is forced to confront the harsh realities of slavery and the underground railroad. The novel expertly weaves together elements of historical fiction, time travel, and coming-of-age, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. With its richly detailed setting and well-developed characters, The Freedom Maze offers a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of those involved in the fight for freedom and equality. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the underground railroad and its impact on American history.
The Conductor by Sarah Quigley is a captivating historical novel that delves into the lives of two women connected by the secret network of escape routes known as the underground railroad. Set in the 19th century, the story follows the journey of Hetty Rhodes, a former slave who becomes a conductor helping others escape to freedom, and Sarah, a modern-day history professor who stumbles upon Hetty’s diaries and becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth about her life. The novel weaves together themes of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit, offering a gripping portrayal of the harrowing experiences faced by those seeking freedom. Quigley’s evocative prose and richly drawn characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in the struggles and triumphs of those navigating the perilous paths of the ‘book about the underground railroad’.
The Escape of Oney Judge by Emily Arnold McCully is a compelling book about the underground railroad that tells the true story of Oney Judge, a young enslaved woman who daringly escapes from George Washington’s household in search of freedom. Through vivid illustrations and engaging storytelling, McCully brings to life Oney’s courageous journey and the challenges she faces as she seeks liberty. This underground railroad book sheds light on the bravery and resilience of enslaved individuals who risked everything to break free from bondage and pursue a better future. The Escape of Oney Judge is a powerful and inspiring account of one woman’s quest for freedom in the face of adversity and oppression.
Conclusion
After exploring the 20 best books about The Underground Railroad, it’s clear that these stories are crucial for understanding the history of slavery and the brave individuals who fought for freedom. Each book offers a unique perspective and insight into the harrowing journey of escaping slavery. Whether you’re interested in personal narratives, historical accounts, or fictional retellings, there’s a book on this list for everyone. These books not only shed light on a dark period in history but also inspire readers with tales of resilience, courage, and the unyielding pursuit of freedom.
Which The Underground Railroad book is best?
The best book on The Underground Railroad can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about The Underground Railroad?
For those looking to learn about The Underground Railroad, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of The Underground Railroad are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best The Underground Railroad books of all time?
Choosing the best The Underground Railroad books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
