Bordewich, Fergus M. Bound for Canaan.

BORDEWICH, Fergus M. Bound for Canaan. Read by Peter Jay Fernandez. 17 tapes. 19.75 hrs. Recorded Books. 2005/2006.1-4193-4683-0. $109.75. Vinyl; content, reader notes. JSA*

Using a huge variety of sources, Bordewich recounts the lives of Americans who risked their lives to bring liberty to the enslaved. While grounded in fact, the narratives read like thrilling suspense stories. Bordewich traces the abolitionism of the early Quakers and, as the years and the number of freed slaves increased, the assumption of responsibility for the underground path by the African Americans who were freed. He sheds new light on the lives of those well known, like Harriet Tubman, but the listener also learns of lesser-known heroes. The listener is not spared the cruel inhumanity of the unmentionable punishment inflicted on those caught escaping or aiding the escape of slaves. Fernandez's narration captures the emotional intensity of the subject and brings distinction to a huge cast of characters in this scholarly but lively and fascinating production. Massive in scope, this comprehensive treatment of the Underground Railroad is a must for school libraries and any collection of African American history. Highly recommended.

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.

*--The asterisk highlights exceptional books.

Nancy Crowder Chaplin, Libn., VCCW, Goochland, VA