One Big Open Sky
One Big Open Sky by Lesa Cline-Ransome, published by Holiday House on March 5, 2024, is a 304-page work presented in English. This intergenerational verse novel follows the perilous wagon journey of three women as they travel westward in search of freedom and opportunity during the 19th century. Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War Mississippi, the narrative explores the challenges faced by Lettie, her mother Sylvia, and teacher Philomena as they navigate the complexities of their aspirations and the harsh realities of their circumstances.
Readers will find a poignant exploration of the Black homesteader movement through the voices of these women, who grapple with themes of autonomy and self-emancipation. The story delves into their struggles against poverty and societal constraints, highlighting the tension between hope and danger as they embark on their journey. Cline-Ransome’s striking verse captures the essence of their experiences, offering insights into the historical context and the resilience of those striving for a better life.
Official synopsis Publisher
Three women narrate a perilous wagon journey westward that could set them free—or cost them everything they have—in this intergenerational verse novel that explores the history of the Black homesteader movement.
1879, Mississippi. Young dreamer Lettie may have her head in the stars, but her body is on a covered wagon heading westward. Her father, Thomas, promises that Nebraska will be everything the family needs: an opportunity to claim the independence they’ve strived for over generations on their very own plot of land.
But Thomas’ hopes—and mouth—are bigger than his ability to follow through. With few supplies and even less money, the only thing that feels certain is danger.
Right after the war ended/and we were free/we believed/all of us did/that couldn’t nothing hurt us/the way master had when we were slaves/Couldn’t no one tell us/how to live/how to die.
Lettie, her mother, Sylvia, and young teacher Philomena are free from slavery—but bound by poverty, access to opportunity, and patriarchal social structures. Will these women survive the hardships of their journey? And as Thomas’ desire for control overpowers his common sense, will they truly be free once they get there?
Coretta Scott King Honor-winning author Lesa Cline-Ransome’s striking verse masterfully portrays an underrepresented historical era. Tackling powerful themes of autonomy and Black self-emancipation, Cline-Ransome offers readers an intimate look into the lives of three women and an expansive portrait of generations striving for their promised freedom.
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
One of Evanston Public Library’s 101 Great Books for Kids
A CSMCL Best Multicultural Children’s Book of the Year
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