Freedom to Read

The Story of Teacher Mary Peake and One Mighty Oak Tree
From Newbery Honor author Lesa Cline-Ransome and Legacy Award recipient James Ransome, this inspiring picture book biography tells the story of Mary Peake, a courageous teacher who started a secret school for Black children.
Three starred reviews!
A thoughtful double portrait that reaches forward and back. Publishers Weekly (starred review)

From Newbery Honor author Lesa Cline-Ransome and ALA Childrens Literature Legacy Award recipient James Ransome, this important picture book biography (School Library Journal, starred review) tells the story of Mary Peake, a courageous teacher who started a secret school for Black children.

So many found sanctuary in Marys secret schoolhouse. They found freedom in letters. In Marys teaching, they found a refuge.

Mary Peake was born free in 1823 in No