Follow the Drinking Gourd - by Jeanette Winter (Paperback)

About the Book

"Follow the Drinking Gourd" sounded like a simple folk song sung by slaves, but it was really a map to freedom--for hidden in the lyrics were directions to the escape route known as the Underground Railroad. In glowing paintings and simple text, Winter tells the story of one brave family who followed the drinking gourd north to freedom.

Book Synopsis

Illus. in full color. "Winter's story begins with a peg-leg sailor who aids slaves on their escape on the Underground Railroad. While working for plantation owners, Peg Leg Joe teaches the slaves a song about the drinking gourd (the Big Dipper). A couple, their son, and two others make their escape by following the song's directions. Rich paintings interpret the strong story in a clean, primitive style enhanced by bold colors. The rhythmic compositions have an energetic presence that's compelling. A fine rendering of history in picturebook format."--(starred) Booklist.

Review Quotes

"A fine rendering of history in picture book format."-Booklist, Starred

"An extraordinary and inspiring tribute to a unique part of African-American
history."-Boston Globe

"The artist's hauntingly muted pictures propel the story forward and make
it memorable."-Washington Post Book World

About the Author

Jeanette Winter has written and illustrated almost 50 books for children, including Diego, Emily Dickinson's Letters to the World, The Librarian of Basra, Georgia, and Mama. Her art with flat colors and perspectives in the folk art tradition have brought her many honors. She lives in New York City.