Chapter 1 – Roots in the Soil
Samuel works the cotton fields and reflects on his daily life and dreams. We meet his mother, Mama Ora, and other key figures on the plantation.
Chapter 2 – Whispers in the Dark
Samuel hears stories from Mama Ora about Africa, freedom, and coded messages in spirituals. His curiosity grows.
Chapter 3 – The Stranger in the Shed
Samuel discovers a wounded runaway hiding in the tool shed. He decides to help, risking punishment.
Chapter 4 – Learning to Read
The stranger teaches Samuel letters using scraps of paper. Samuel learns to read the word "freedom."
Chapter 5 – A Song with a Map
Mama Ora sings a spiritual that contains clues about an escape route. Samuel starts to understand the hidden language of resistance.
Chapter 6 – Caught in the Act
Samuel is caught with a paper. He is punished, but doesn't betray the stranger.
Chapter 7 – Fire in the Field
A fire gives Samuel the chance to escape with the runaway. They leave at night under a sky full of stars.
Chapter 8 – The River Crossing
Samuel faces danger and doubts. One of the group is caught. Samuel barely escapes with the help of a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
Chapter 9 – The City of Shadows
Samuel reaches a Northern town where he learns more about abolitionists and freedom. He writes his first letter.
Chapter 10 – Never Forget
Years later, Samuel is a teacher in a free Black community. He tells his story to a young girl — passing the legacy forward.