Thousands of courageous African Americans escaped from slavery in the South along what became known as "The Underground Railroad." The railroad provided a secret way to transport slaves to freedom in the Northern states and Canada. Author Kem Knapp Sawyer captures the courage and determination of many fugitives who traveled the Underground Railroad to freedom. Knapp brings the dangers faced by escaped slaves and those who helped them along the way into detailed focus. The success of the Underground Railroad shows the resolve of many whites and blacks to end slavery in the United States.