One Big Open Sky
One Big Open Sky by Lesa Cline-Ransome, published by Holiday House on August 19, 2025, is a historical fiction work presented in verse. This 304-page book follows the perilous journey of three women as they travel westward in search of freedom and opportunity, exploring the history of the Black homesteader movement in 1879 Mississippi. The narrative centers on young Lettie, her mother Sylvia, and teacher Philomena, who navigate the challenges of their journey while confronting the limitations imposed by poverty and societal structures.
Readers will find an exploration of autonomy and Black self-emancipation through the perspectives of these women. As they face the dangers of their trek, the story delves into themes of resilience and the quest for independence. Cline-Ransome’s striking verse captures the complexities of their experiences, providing an intimate look into their lives and the broader historical context. This edition offers a unique portrayal of an underrepresented era, inviting readers to reflect on the struggles and aspirations of those who sought 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
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