Eleven-year-old Samuel was born as Master Hackler's slave, and working on the Kentucky farm is the only life he's ever known--until one dark night in 1859. Without warning, Samuel is pulled from his bed by Harrison, the oldest slave on Master's farm. And together, they run.

The journey north seems much more frightening than Master Hackler ever was, and Samuel is not sure what freedom means aside from running, hiding, and starving. But as they move from one refuge to the next on the Underground Railroad, Samuel discovers the secret of his own past--and future. And old Harrison begins to see beyond a lifetime of hurt to the promise of a new life.

Through the compelling words of Samuel, Trouble Don't Last gives a voice to the runaways themselves. It is a suspenseful and fast paced story that will immerse readers in their emotional journey.

A bibliography, map, and author's note provide additional historical details for teachers and students.

• 2003 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction
• 2003 Ohioana Library Book Award, Juvenile Fiction
• 2003 Best Children's Book of the Year (age 9-12) with asterisk for Outstanding Merit, Bank Street College of Education
• 2002 Editor's Choice by Booklist
• 2003 Jefferson Cup Honor Book
• New York Public Library selection in "Children's Books 2002: 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing"
• Top Ten First Novels by Booklist
• Lasting Connections book by Book Links
• Top Ten Historical Fiction for Youth by Booklist