Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine

 Levine, E. (2007). Henry's freedom box: a true story from the underground railroad. New York, New York: Scholastic press.

Summary:

 This picture book tells the true story of Henry Brown.  He was born into slavery.  Like many slaves, he longs for freedom.  Henry is torn from his family.  Eventually he marries and has several children.  His wife and children are sold at the slave market.  One day, he decides to mail himself to the freedom of the North.  He is shipped in a box.  Eventually, he arrives in Philadelphia and lives as a free man.

 







 
Awards:

• Caldecott Honor 
•  IRA Teachers' Choices selection
•  ALA Notable Children's Book

Resources:
Letter from the illustrator
Slideshow of illustrator's primary source images
Timeline of the Underground Railroad
Underground Railroad Routes
Online Game: Underground Railroad

 
Watch here to hear the book read aloud: