In this classic Coretta Scott King Honor Book, a young enslaved man makes a daring run for freedom, then battles to free his people.

"Authenticity rings throughout this outstanding novel depicting events and places in rural South Carolina in the 1860s and representing the diversity of persons, experiences, and opinions during the Civil War. The double-edged title refers to trust and decisions as well as to the escapes of African Americans from bondage. This historical novel accurately documents the military participation of blacks in the Civil War." (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books)

Obi had never forgotten the sounds of his mother's screams on the day he was sold away from her. Making plans to run away to find her was a secret game he played with his friend Buka, an old African who lived at the edge of the farm.

When the Civil War began, Obi knew it was time to run--or be sold again. If he was caught, he'd be killed...or worse. But if he stayed, he might never know freedom.

This classic historical fiction for ages 9 to 12 is a strong choice for sharing in the classroom or at home, especially for students studying topics including the Civil War, African American participation in the war, and the history of slavery in the United States.