The Road to Dawn

"Vivid....a moving account of Henson's life and a book from which readers will learn a great deal about the struggle against slavery."

"Jared Brock's biography of Josiah Henson is an impressive effort to piece together the story of a man nearly lost to history and broken by slavery. The Road to Dawn is sure to become required reading in the archives of African American history."

"The Road to Dawn tells the story of a courageous man who pursued the common good in spite of painful wounds, discouraging setbacks, and personal flaws. Josiah's winsome character and role within the broader abolitionist context keep us turning the page, as does Jared Brock's fine storytelling about this American figure. And these stories remind us that we have much to learn from those who embody the message of justice and mercy, whatever their flaws or fortune may be."

"Among the many incredible things he accomplished throughout his lifetime, readers might be surprised to learn Josiah Henson was one of our nation's first social entrepreneurs. The Road to Dawn expertly explains how education and economy are key elements for achieving emancipation and equality."

"The Road to Dawn is an honest and moving portrait of one of our nation's greatest unsung heroes. Jared Brock's biography brings much-deserved attention to Josiah Henson's epic life story, serving as a reminder to what can be accomplished when we fight on the right side of history."

"For too many years, the contributions of African-Americans to our society were minimized or hidden. This book captures the triumph of the human spirit over slavery and of man's inhumanity to man. Josiah Henson exhibited an indefatigable determination to live a life dedicated to the realization of educational opportunities and self-sufficiency for all. We can never know too much about those who paved the way and about those upon whose shoulders we stand."

"The Road to Dawn expertly casts Josiah Henson's heroic struggle for emancipation against the backdrop of a national fight for freedom, and in doing so, re-introduces a vital character to American history."

"Harriet Tubman [and] Frederick Douglass are well known figures in the abolition of slavery. Josiah Henson was less known. Here was a man who had spent more than 40 years in slavery but promised to use his freedom well. He delivered on that promise. Jared A. Brock takes us through the life of a hero of the abolitionist era who overcame unspeakable pain and adversity to make an impact on his home country. A must read."

"Josiah Henson made a vow to use his freedom well, and his successful legacy serves as an inspiration long after his lifetime. As a descendant of once-enslaved Americans who also used their freedom well, I hope many will join me in reading the vital message of The Road to Dawn."

"Jared Brock brings to life the struggles and perseverance of a man almost forgotten in history. This well-researched book documents the life of Josiah Henson, whose experiences in Maryland, his escape to Canada, and his work on the Underground Railroad reveal a man of incredible fortitude and determination."

"Finally, a biography worthy of the man. The Road to Dawn elevates Josiah Henson to his rightful place among important international liberators and frees him from the grip of 'Uncle Tom.' Black history, when properly told will transform your life and your thinking."

"A captivating biography of superb scholarship."

"From newspaper advertisements to slave narratives, Brock conveys graphic accounts of the violence of slavery. But from the novels of the day to Henson's own autobiography, he remains focused on Henson's personal story. This is perhaps this book's greatest feat-keeping Henson's message and story central."

"Fabulous...highly recommended."

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