BOX Henry Brown Mails Himself to Freedom

Dion Graham delivers this narrative poetry with understated passion, giving dignity to Henry Brown's story of escape from slavery by mailing himself to Philadelphia in a box. Graham transports the listener to a painful time and place in our history, blending a Southern accent with Weatherford's hybrid of modern and period language. Graham is soft-spoken yet expressive reciting poems like "Work" and "Brutality." His quiet voice hints at fear of being overheard as soft music plays in the background. In "Fear" and in "Nat," a poem recounting Nat Turner's failed rebellion, Graham's voice intensifies, along with the violin music. Henry's tragic background explains his willingness to attempt a perilous escape. Dramatic music and whispered dialogue give way to joy upon Henry's safe arrival in Philadelphia. Timeline and author/illustrator notes are included. L.T. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2020]