Freedom Was Worth It: The Story of Harriet Jacobs

Trapped in a space barely tall enough to sit up in, a young woman listened quietly for the sound of her children's voices below. For seven long years, she stayed hidden in an attic crawlspace—waiting, watching, and never giving up. This is the powerful true story of Harriet Jacobs, a girl born into slavery who chose courage, cleverness, and fierce love for her family over fear. Written for readers ages 7 to 12, this book tells Harriet's story in a way that brings history to life—without talking down to kids or skipping over the truth. It explores how she survived in secret, how she used secret messages and spy-like tricks to outsmart her pursuers, and how she eventually found her way to freedom. Readers will meet the people who helped her, learn about the risks she took, and understand why her voice still matters today. With short, vivid chapters and a gripping narrative, this book invites young readers to step into the world of one of the first Black women in America to write about her own life. It's a story of bravery, hope, and determination—and a reminder that even the smallest voices can make history.