This picture book based on a true story would be a developmentally appropriate read aloud for lower elementary on the topic of slavery. It focuses on a successful escape aided by a protective hound and has only the threat of violence, presented in such a way that young children could grasp without excessive exposure to the real horror of slavery. The story is action packed and will easily hold the attention of a young audience. Hurray for another quality book to diversify school libraries! ( )

I really like this book. I think it teaches just how far loyalty can bring someone. One of the themes of this book is that the ones you love will always have your back. Overall, this story was extremely cute, taught lessons on history and life, and would be one I would like to have in my classroom. ( )

A genuine story about a boy and his dog that touched me. I have my very own beagle hound and she is a gentle soul. This book gave me all kind of emotions... happy, sad, suspense, and relief. It was not just about escaping slavery, but it was about putting trust in someone or something. In this case James had to learn to trust his dog. I know I trust my dogs instinct over my own any day. I thought it to be a life lesson of being able to trust someone unexpectedly. It was a good book to just read and teach a good lesson. ( )

KIRKUS REVIEW

Based on a true story the author came across while writing the historical-fiction novel Stealing Freedom (1998), this beautifully illustrated picture book tells of the attempt of a young slave boy to escape his situation and go north. James tells his friend that he will escape that evening, but he’s caught by the men to whom his friend sold the information. Sure to be severely punished, James is lucky to be rescued by his dog Zeus. James shows a real lack of faith in Zeus, continually trying to get rid of him, afraid that he will somehow foil the escape. But Zeus is the reason that James gets through a number of frightening situations. Finally, after the reader is beginning to lose patience, James realizes how loyal Zeus is and that he should be appreciated. A one-page author’s note tells the full story of James and Zeus who actually did escape slavery. Caldecott Honor–winner Lewis’s stunning watercolors, some covering the entire spread, help convey the story in ways words cannot. Zeus is lovingly drawn in all his persistence, loyalty and bravery. James’s defeatism that turns into hope is perfectly indicated by the merest change of a brush stroke as Lewis adds to his long list of truly accomplished work. An excellent way to teach history, this belongs in every library. (Picture book/nonfiction. 5-9)

-https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/elisa-carbone/night-running/

Summary:
This book was another book about slavery. About a little oy named James and his dog. He tries really hard to get to freedom, and he keeps getting mad at his dog when he is just trying to help. James tries to cross the Ohio river but starts to drown, his dog saves him and a man offers to give them shelter and food, but James said he would only if his dog could come too. They both had a nice dinner and slept in a freedom state!

Personal Reaction:
I thought this was another good story about slavery and how this little boy got to be free. I also love animals so I like that this boy had a trustworthy dog and friend to go with him and help him!

Classroom Extension Ideas:
1. Draw out what the kids would want their dog to look like if they were in that situation.
2. Have a field trip devoted to teaching kids how to swim if they don't know how to.