Friend on Freedom River

Friend on Freedom River

Gloria Whelan

Illustrated by Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen

Picture Book

                It was cold and windy. Louis was out doing the evening chores. He was doing them by himself, because his father had head north to the logging camps for the winter.

Suddenly a voice startled him. “Are you a friend?” Louis’s father had taught him the correct answer. Slowly, a black women emerge with her son and daughter. The slave catchers were close on their tale. Would Louis be willing to take them across Lake Michigan to safety?

Louis knew that the lake would be frozen in places. He knew that they could be caught. He knew the lake was dangerous during this time of year. Yet, he agree to take them. Will they make it to freedom?

Another excellent story from Gloria Whelan. This one highlights both the courage of a young white boy and the courage of the black family seeking freedom. Ms. Whelan’s story is excellently brought to life by Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen’s art.