Overground Railroad
What’s inside...
Overground Railroad by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by James Ransome is a poignant portrayal of a young girl named Ruth Ellen's journey during the Great Migration. As Ruth Ellen and her family travel northward on the Silver Meteor train, she reflects on her past and the new life that awaits through a series of poems. The book captures the changing landscapes and the evolving revelations of freedom and opportunity through the eyes of Ruth Ellen, paralleling her experience with that of Frederick Douglass. The rich, mixed-media illustrations bring depth to this moving tale of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of a better future. The book celebrates the courage of those participating in the Great Migration and is a testament to the human spirit's enduring desire for freedom and equality.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Ruth felt on her journey north, and what would you have done in her place?
Why do you think the story is called 'Overground Railroad'? How does it connect to Ruth's experience?
What changes do you notice in the landscape as Ruth travels? What do these changes symbolize?
How does the relationship between Ruth and her family evolve throughout their journey?
In what ways do Ruth and her family show strength and hope in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Ruth’s shoes, fostering empathy and understanding for her situation.
Discuss the historical context of the Great Migration briefly before diving into the story, helping your child grasp the significance of the journey.
Ask your child to describe the different settings in the book, promoting attention to detail and critical thinking.
Reinforce the themes of hope and resilience by asking how these elements are shown through the actions and decisions of the characters.
Create a comfortable and open environment where your child feels free to express their feelings and thoughts about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: The book portrays a young girl Ruthie's journey with her family as part of the Great Migration, helping children grasp the concept of historical events and the human stories behind them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by showing empathy towards peers from diverse backgrounds and understanding how history shapes personal and community experiences.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and support
Explanation: Throughout Ruthie's journey, the closeness and support of her family provide a sense of security and belonging, emphasizing the power of familial bonds.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value and rely on their family members during times of change or new challenges.
Example Lesson: Resilience and hope in adversity
Explanation: As the story unfolds, Ruthie’s anticipation and apprehensions about the new life in New York showcase her resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain hopeful and resilient when facing their own uncertainties or transitions in life.
Example Lesson: Cultural diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The story exposes readers to different cultural backgrounds, illustrating the richness that different communities bring to a society.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage inclusivity and respect among children for varying cultures and traditions in their own environments.