Recently I saw a book trailer about Light Across the River, and was so intrigued by the story that I had to read the book. I'm so glad I did. Though this is a work of fiction, Stephanie Reed based her novel on fact, taken in large part from the writings of one of the main characters.
Set in the early 1800's, this story follows one family's struggle to help slaves escape to freedom. Eliza is a slave whose family is about to be sold to another owner. First she sends her husband across the river to connect with the Underground Railroad. Later, she follows in a true act of heroism, crossing the trecherous and rapidly melting ice with her infant son. Then, in an almost inconceivable act of selfless love, she returns for the rest of her family. Sound familiar? It should. Eliza's story was immortalized by Harriet Beecher Stowe, who makes a cameo appearance in this book. Reed brings the story to life by letting readers live it through the eyes of that brave mother and a boy whose family was instrumental in helping her to freedom in Canada. There's enough period detail to paint a realistic and vivid picture of the time period. You'll find yourself drawn in to Johnny's and Eliza's worlds.
The book lived up to the intriguing promise of the book trailer I saw. Though it's considered a novel for young readers, I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you'd like to watch the trailer that hooked me, you'll find it here:
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=be4eaca7990688da2eb6
Makes you want to read the book, doesn't it? If you decide to buy it, please support your local bookstore and ask them to order a copy for you. But if you order online, click here.
