How do you tell a story that starts in Africa and ends in horror? About strength and pride and refusing to be broken? One that still hurts and still loves? A powerfully moving, poetic exploration of the story of slavery: from Africa to the tall ships, from back-breaking work in a strange land to resilience and eventual emancipation, Kwame Alexander tells the story that's hard to hear. Told through the lens of a teacher speaking to their young pupils, and in multiple art styles from award-winning artist and sculptor Dare Coulter, the story of slavery becomes one that you can tell with the bravery to lift your voice. A must-read for all children and adults alike, and the perfect companion to Kwame Alexander's award-winning picture book The Undefeated.

"A truly original and arresting work" - The Bookseller, Editor's Choice

"Beautifully crafted and brutally honest, this [book] offers a thoughtful introduction to a necessary topic" - Booklist

"With powerful art from a bold new talent, this [book] is a probing and sensitive take on a devastating chapter of U.S. history" - Kirkus

"Coulter's mixed-media illustrations bring the text to life with a powerful combination of two-dimensional ceramic and polymer clay sculptures" - The Horn Book

"Excellent and essential... This book is unforgettable" - School Library Journal