Henry’s Freedom Box by Kadir Nelson

Henry’s Freedom Box is a true story about Henry “Box” Brown and his daring escape from slavery. This powerful story begins with Henry’s mom telling him about the realities of living in slavery. “Do you see those leaves blowing in the wind?” she asks. “They are torn from the trees like slave children are torn from their families.” In the beginning of the story where as a child Henry is sent to his master’s son, to the loss of his family when his wife and three children are sold, you will sense Henry’s fear, grief, desperation, and finally, hope with his incredible decision to reach freedom through an ingenious plan. Henry’s Freedom Box is an extraordinary story that will raise numerous questions from youngsters about slavery, injustice, and hard-won freedom.

Jessica, 1st grade teacher