The Overground Railroad: The Inspiring Journey of Lesa Cline Ransome

The Overground Railroad has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and determination through the inspiring stories of individuals who fought for freedom during the era of slavery. One such individual who has brought these stories to life is Lesa Cline Ransome, a renowned author and advocate.

With her captivating writing style and meticulous research, Ransome has dedicated her career to telling the untold stories of African Americans who journeyed towards freedom on the "Overground Railroad."

Spanning over 3000 miles, the Overground Railroad was not a physical network of routes like the Underground Railroad. Instead, it symbolizes the collective efforts of countless individuals who helped escaped slaves reach their destinations, often facing numerous dangers and obstacles along the way.

Overground Railroad

by Lesa Cline-Ransome (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	87552 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

Through her books, Ransome sheds light on the lives and experiences of those who found solace and refuge in the North. She brings to light the struggles faced by both enslaved African Americans and the brave individuals who assisted them in their journey towards freedom.

One of Ransome's most celebrated works is "Before She Was Harriet," which chronicles the extraordinary life of Harriet Tubman. The book explores Tubman's role as a conductor on the Underground Railroad and goes beyond her well-known exploits to reveal her experiences as a suffragist and a Union spy during the Civil War. Ransome's meticulous research and beautiful illustrations make this book a must-read for all ages.

In "Freedom's School," Ransome takes on another incredible story from history. The book tells the true story of Mary Walker, an African American girl who eagerly seeks an education during the Reconstruction era. Despite the hardships and discrimination faced by Mary and many others, their determination and resilience ultimately triumphed, paving the way for future generations to receive an education.

Ransome's writing not only highlights the historical significance of these stories, but also showcases the power of resilience and hope that continues to inspire readers today. She believes that sharing these stories is essential for understanding the struggles of the past and empowering future generations to fight for equality and justice.

Aside from her books, Ransome actively engages with her readers by conducting school visits and workshops about the history of the Overground Railroad. Her presentations offer a unique opportunity for students to connect with history and gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of enslaved Africans Americans and the heroes who fought for their freedom.

Through her dedication, Lesa Cline Ransome has played a vital role in preserving the legacy of the Overground Railroad and the stories of the courageous individuals who defied the odds to secure their freedom. Her books serve as a powerful reminder that history is not merely a collection of facts, but a tapestry of untold stories waiting to be discovered.

So, whether you're a history enthusiast, educator, or simply someone who appreciates powerful storytelling, don't miss the chance to dive into the world of Lesa Cline Ransome and her incredible contributions to the Overground Railroad narrative.

Overground Railroad

by Lesa Cline-Ransome (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	87552 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

A window into a child's experience of the Great Migration from the award-winning creators of Before She Was Harriet and Finding Langston.

Climbing aboard the New York bound Silver Meteor train, Ruth Ellen embarks upon a journey toward a new life up North-- one she can't begin to imagine. Stop by stop, the perceptive young narrator tells her journey in poems, leaving behind the cotton fields and distant Blue Ridge mountains.

Each leg of the trip brings new revelations as scenes out the window of folks working in fields give way to the Delaware River, the curtain that separates the colored car is removed, and glimpses of the freedom and opportunity the family hopes to find come into view. As they travel, Ruth Ellen reads from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, reflecting on how her journey mirrors her own-- until finally the train arrives at its last stop, New York's Penn Station, and the family heads out into a night filled with bright lights, glimmering stars, and new possiblity.

James Ransome's mixed-media illustrations are full of bold color and texture, bringing Ruth Ellen's journey to life, from sprawling cotton fields to cramped train cars, the wary glances of other passengers and the dark forest through which Frederick Douglass traveled towards freedom. Overground Railroad is, as Lesa notes, a story "of people who were running from and running to at the same time," and it's a story that will stay with readers long after the final pages.

An American Library Association Notable Children’s BookA New York Public Library Best Book of the YearA School Library Journal Best Book of the YearA Junior Library Guild SelectionA Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year!Named a Best Picture Book by the African American Children's Book ProjectA Booklist Editor's Choice