The Escape of Robert Smalls: A Daring Voyage Out of Slavery

In "The Escape of Robert Smalls: A Daring Voyage Out of Slavery," young readers are transported to the fog-laden Charleston Inner Harbor during the height of the U.S. Civil War. This enthralling narrative follows Robert Smalls, an enslaved man who daringly impersonates a Confederate steamship captain to steer himself, his crew, and their families to freedom. Published on September 1, 2019, the book masterfully combines suspenseful prose with evocative artwork, bringing to life the thrilling night of May 13, 1862, when Smalls' audacious plan led them past heavily armed Confederate forts into Union territory. Ideal for elementary school students, this book not only sheds light on a pivotal moment in racial justice but also celebrates the courage and ingenuity of an unsung American hero. As readers follow Smalls' perilous journey to liberation, they are invited to reflect on the depths of bravery and the enduring fight for freedom.