June 22, 2023 – Haymarket, Virginia – Conversations in the Community, Inc., has launched its summer reading experience with “Master Slave Husband Wife:  An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom” by Ilyon Woo.

“I am thrilled to launch our second summer reading experience with this amazing book that teaches us about a dark time in our country’s past while reminding us of the strength of the human spirit,” said president and founder, Jennifer Roberts.

Woo’s book chronicles the real-life trek of husband and wife, William and Ellen Craft, who, in 1848, make the long and dangerous voyage from Macon, Georgia to Philadelphia, PA to escape slavery.  Ellen disguises herself as a disabled, White man and William accompanies her as an enslaved man.

“I first learned about this couple’s harrowing experience from the children’s book, “The Daring Escape of Ellen Craft,”  by Cathy Moore, a few years ago.  I was thrilled to come across Woo’s book at the Manassas Barnes and Noble earlier this year.  Not only is “Master Slave Husband Wife” well researched, but it is also masterfully written.  Its attention to detail reminds us of the brilliance and determination of enslaved African Americans to pursue and attain the freedom that they were denied.”

The book is available for purchase in print and is also available on Audible as an audio book. It is also available in the Prince William Public Library System in print, on CD and as an audio book.  Community members will meet in August to discuss the book over dinner at a local restaurant.  Email conversationsinthecommunity@gmail.com for details. 

Conversations in the Community, Inc. is an educational advocacy organization headquartered in Haymarket, Virginia.  It works with students, parents, guardians, educators and other community members to increase equitable outcomes for students in Prince William County.

www.citcom.org.