
By Gwendolyn Hooks, Simone Agoussoye (Illustrator)
Part of the Encounter: Narrative Nonfiction Picture Books series
A daring escape from the Washingtons leads to a relentless pursuit.
Ona Judge, a slave in George Washington's household, seizes her chance for freedom, fleeing to New Hampshire. But her escape ignites a relentless manhunt led by the first president himself. As Ona navigates her new life, the threat of capture looms large. Will she evade the powerful grasp of the Washingtons, or will her past catch up with her? This gripping tale of courage and determination explores the high stakes of Ona's quest for liberty against formidable odds.
Soon after American colonists had won independence from Great Britain, Ona Judge was fighting for her own freedom from one of America’s most famous founding fathers, George Washington. George and Martha Washington valued Ona as one of their most skilled and trustworthy slaves, but she would risk everything to achieve complete freedom. Born into slavery at Mount Vernon, Ona seized the opportunity to escape when she was brought to live in the President’s Mansion in Philadelphia. Ona fled to New Hampshire and started a new life. But the Washingtons wouldn’t give up easily. After her escape, Ona became the focus of a years-long manhunt, led by America’s first president. Gwendolyn Hooks’ vivid and detailed prose captures the danger, uncertainty, and persistence Ona Judge experienced during and after her heroic escape. The Capstone Interactive edition comes with simultaneous access for every student in your school and includes read aloud audio recorded by professional voice over artists.
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.
Top contributors: Literary Leslie