Publisher's Synopsis
Henry Bell is not allowed to read and write. In fact, most enslaved children, like him, are severely punished if they are even caught with a book. But Henry is curious. He suspects there is something powerful in books and he wants to know what it is. One day, Henry hides in a sycamore tree by the schoolhouse just as the teacher begins reading a story. His heart pounds as he listens with astonishment and right then he decides to learn to read. Henry's fierce determination and bravery lead him to a special friendship and journey of discovery that changes his life.
