Follow the Drinking Gourd
Sale price
$858
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 1988 · Est. 8 min read-aloud

Follow the Drinking Gourd

By Jeanette Winter

A peg-leg sailor's song guides slaves to freedom under the stars.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 2,156 ratings
48 pages· 913 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud
$8.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In a time of peril, a peg-leg sailor named Peg Leg Joe becomes a beacon of hope for slaves seeking freedom. Teaching them a secret song about the drinking gourd, he provides a map to liberation. As a couple, their son, and two others embark on this dangerous journey, they must trust the stars and their courage. Will they find the freedom they seek, or will the path lead them into greater danger? This tale of bravery and hope is vividly brought to life with rich, bold illustrations, capturing the essence of a pivotal moment in history.

From the publisher

Illus. in full color. “Winter’s story begins with a peg-leg sailor who aidsslaves on their escape on the Underground Railroad. While working forplantation owners, Peg Leg Joe teaches the slaves a song about the drinkinggourd (the Big Dipper). A couple, their son, and two others make their escapeby following the song’s directions. Rich paintings interpret the strong storyin a clean, primitive style enhanced by bold colors. The rhythmic compositionshave an energetic presence that’s compelling. A fine rendering of history inpicturebook format.”–(starred) “Booklist. “

At a glance
Format
Paperback
Pages
48
Words
913
Reading age
3–7
Audience
Picture
Lexile
AD630L
Themes & topics
Books about slaveryBooks about 19th centuryBooks about 1800-1849Books about the Underground Railroad
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The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
4.3
F&P level
~O
AR points
0.5
AR interest level
LG
AR quiz
28792
Publication
Published
January 15, 1992
First published
January 1, 1988
Edition
Language
English
Type
Picture Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9780679819974

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