Follow the Drinking Gourd

Illus. in full color. Winter's story begins with a peg-leg sailor who aids slaves on their escape on the Underground Railroad. While working for plantation owners Peg Leg Joe teaches the slaves a song about the drinking gourd (the Big Dipper). A couple their son and two others make their escape by following the song's directions. Rich paintings interpret the strong story in a clean primitive style enhanced by bold colors. The rhythmic compositions have an energetic presence that's compelling. A fine rendering of history in picturebook format.--(starred) <i>Booklist. </i>