In this story set during the 1960s, an African American family living in Alabama decides to relocate to the North in search of a better life far from the segregated South. However, traveling across the South can be a dangerous journey--will they have enough gas to make it to the next filling station that serves African American customers? Will they find a spot to welcome them when the need a rest? Meanwhile, the young female narrator also worries about what life will be like in the North. Could life in Nebraska really be better than it was in Alabama? Inspired by the author's own childhood experiences, this picture book is illustrated with color paintings. A Kirkus Editor's Choice for 2004. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.