"Truly a gift to readers of the new generation." — Coretta Scott King Award Committee.
"A compelling exploration of the African-American experience from slavery through the 1960s civil rights movement to contemporary times. This fascinating book will engender pride in heritage for young African Americans and provide insight into American history for all." — Horn Book Magazine
"Engrossing history with a strong unifying theme, the narrative enriched with accounts of outstanding lives. Speaking as an African-American, Myers concludes with an eloquent homily recalling the noble qualities of the people he has described and reminding readers that we should 'be no less than we can be' and that 'before you can go forward, you must know where you have been.' For Americans of any color, he makes a notably persuasive case for doing both." — Kirkus Reviews
"Combining the emotional and plot-weaving powers of his novelist talents with a strong author's presence, Myers portrays the quests of individual Africans against the background of broader historical movements. Intriguing and rousing." — Publishers Weekly