Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad

This quintessential middle grade biography of Harriet Tubman, a selection of the Schomburg Center's Black Liberation Reading List.

Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad was praised by the New Yorker as “an evocative portrait,” and by the Chicago Tribune as “superb.” It is a gripping and accessible portrait of the heroic woman who guided more than 300 enslaved people to freedom.

Harriet Tubman was born in slavery and dreamed of being free. She was willing to risk everything—including her own life—to see that dream come true. After her daring escape, Harriet became a conductor on the secret Underground Railroad, helping others make the dangerous journey to freedom.

This award-winning introduction to the late abolitionist, which was named an ALA Notable Book and a New York Times Outstanding Book, also includes additional educational back matter such as a timeline, discussion questions, and extension activities.

“She braved every danger, overcame every obstacle.”

Born a slave, Harriet Tubman dreamed of being free. And she was willing to risk everything—including her life—to make that dream come true.

After her dangerous escape, Harriet saw that her own liberty wasn’t enough and became a conductor on the secret Underground Railroad, helping others make the perilous journey out of bondage.

Along the way, Harriet suffered betrayal and a broken heart, but she always symbolized strength and inspiration. She was a legendary “Moses,” a hero delivering hundreds from the desert of slavery and giving them the greatest gift one can give: freedom.

“An unusually well-written and moving life of the ‘Moses of her people.’’’ - The Horn Book

“An evocative portrait.” - The New Yorker

“Told with insight, style, and a fine narrative skill.” - The New York Times

“A superb biography. The vitality of this remarkable woman leaps from every page.” - Chicago Tribune

“Ann Petry, writing with sympathy and fidelity, has made Harriet Tubman live for present-day readers of any age. Deeply moving.” - Christian Science Monitor