Do you like reading books based on historical truths? Are you one who is fascinated with understanding what happened at a particular time in American history? If you answered yes to the aforementioned questions, you must read Donna McDine’s The Golden Pathway.
The book is about a dark period in American history. The story is about David, a young boy who attempts to free Jenkins, a slave owned by his Pa.
David’s Pa is a mean-spirited drunkard who has very little regard for his own flesh and blood. He often verbally abuses David by calling him a sissy every chance he gets.
David is the complete opposite of his Pa. He is a kind-hearted and compassionate boy. He risks his own life in an attempt to lead Jenkins to freedom. The daily beatings that his Pa subject Jenkins to, compelled David to action. David is certain if something is not done Jenkins will end up dead.
Will David get caught? Can he safely lead Jenkins to freedom?
I was held captive wondering how in the world David could accomplish such a dangerous mission. The story has a very interesting twist that kept me guessing until the very end.
This book shows that for every evil deed committed, there is always many individuals willing to make a wrong right; this is the part of the story I found to be very inspiring. The dad represents evil, but the son represents all that is good.
It took many cold-hearted people to make slavery continue, but we must never forget that if it were not for people like David, slavery would have taken a lot longer to be abolished.
The fine illustrations by K.C Snider made the story come alive. The expressions on David’s face exemplified the compassion he showed toward Jenkins. I am especially fond of the picture of David trying to comfort Jenkins after being beaten to a pulp by his Pa. Ms. Snider’s illustrations captured the true essence of the story and that is why the story jumps off the page.
Reading The Golden Pathway made me stop to think about all the kind-hearted people who helped many slaves and made it possible for them to escape.
You can read more about author Donna McDine at her blog.