44 pages 1 hour read

Barbara Smucker

Underground To Canada

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1978

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Underground to Canada by Barbara Smucker, Julilly, an enslaved adolescent girl in Virginia, is sold to a plantation owner in Mississippi, separating her from her mother. Following her mother's advice, she attempts to escape to Canada, enduring a perilous journey via the Underground Railroad, facing danger, and receiving aid from various allies, ultimately reaching freedom in Canada. This book describes enslavement, abuse, and racism.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Barbara Smucker's Underground to Canada is praised for its compelling narrative and historical accuracy in depicting the journey of escaping slavery. Readers highlight its age-appropriate yet impactful exploration of a sensitive topic, though some feel it lacks depth in character development. Overall, it's lauded as an important educational tool for young readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Underground To Canada?

Readers who enjoyed The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead or Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson are likely to appreciate Underground to Canada by Barbara Smucker. This novel appeals to middle grade readers interested in historical fiction about slavery and the resilience and courage in the struggle for freedom.

Recommended

Reading Age

9-12years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Identity: Disability

Identity: Race

Genre

Children's Literature

Education

Historical Fiction

Topics

Education

History: World