An eloquently written and illustrated volume features poems crafted out of the tradition of quilting and the tragedy of slavery. Each poem, named for a quilt block, is comprised of ten lines of ten syllables each to mimic a (quilt) block–like structure. Poet Cynthia Grady incorporates a biblical/spiritual reference, a musical reference, and a sewing/fiber arts reference into each poem, to reflect the three layers of a quilt. Her words and imagery seam the poems with threads of pain and hope. Michele Wood’s stunning illustrations incorporate the specific quilt block motif of each poem while giving beautiful face and form to its subject. Each page spread features the poem and a brief paragraph about its content on one side, and a stirring, full-page painting on the other. An informative introduction, as well as a rich author’s note and illustrator’s note are included, along with references. (Age 9 and older)

A moving, memorable poetry collection shaped around the stories of enslaved people in America.

• Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) Nonfiction Honor List
• Bank Street College Best Children's Books
• NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Books
• PEN Steven Kroll Award Shortlist
• Kirkus Reviews (starred)
• School Library Journal (starred)

This rich and intricate collection of poems chronicles the various experiences of enslaved people in the United States. Named for traditional quilt block patterns like Log Cabin, Cotton Boll, and Schoolhouse, each poem--ten lines of ten syllables each--mimics the square shape of a quilt block. Readers experience slavery in America through fourteen different perspectives, including a woman humming "Gilead" as she quilts, a mother losing her daughter to the auction, a child discovering the freedom of learning, and a young man fleeing on the Underground Railroad.

Brought to life by vivid, expressive artwork from Michele Wood, this stirring and eloquent book offers a timeless witness to the hardship endured by enslaved men, women, and children. Each poem is supplemented by historical information and notes on quilting, musical, and spiritual references in the text.