This stunning picture book offers a riveting account of African
American explorer Matthew Henson's 1909 journey to the North Pole with
Admiral Peary.
Matthew Henson was born just after the Civil War, a time when slavery
had been abolished, but few opportunities were available for Black
people. As a child, Henson exhibited a yearning for adventure, embarking
at age thirteen on a five-year voyage sailing the seven seas.
But Henson's greatest adventure began when Robert Peary invited him to
join an expedition to the North Pole. After many storms, injuries, and
unimaginable cold, on April 1, Peary, Henson, and four Inuit men began
the final 133-mile push to the Pole.
This fascinating tale from award-winning nonfiction author Deborah
Hopkinson is paired with beautiful artwork from Stephen Alcorn. Perfect
for Black history and exploration units.