• Age: 12 to 18
• Grade: 7 to 12

Abram know only slavery, but from the moment he holds his baby cousin in his arms, he is determined to protect her from the harsh realities of life on the plantation. As she grows, however, Eliza cannot escape notice. Her fair skin and blue eyes invite the hatred of the master's daughters, and the young slave's fate seems all but assured. Abram knows that freedom appears impossible, but somewhere - through the scorching heat and the overseer's whip - lies hope.

Virginia Frances Schwartz is the author of three historical novels, including Messenger and Send One Angel Down, an American Library Association Best Book for Young Adults and winner of a Parent's Choice Gold Award Born in Ontario, Canada, Virginia now lives in New York City, where she teaches writing to elementary school children

Paul Morin, an accomplished painter, sculptor and musician is also the illustrator of a number of children's books He has also received 25 international awards for his book illustrations In addition, Paul has won many accolades for his work, including ten awards from the Canadian Association of Photographers and Illustrators, and a nomination for the Kate Greenaway Medal Originally from Calgary, Alberta, Mr Morin now lives near Rockwood, Ontario

Virginia Frances Schwartz's profile page

". . . profoundly moving. . . "

-- Booklist