When Zora Neale Hurston and her best friend, Carrie Brown, discover that the town mute can speak after all, they think they’ve uncovered a big secret. But Mr. Polk’s silence is just one piece of a larger puzzle that stretches back half a century to the tragic story of an enslaved girl named Lucia. As Zora’s curiosity leads a reluctant Carrie deeper into the mystery, the story unfolds through alternating narratives. Lucia’s struggle for freedom resonates through the years, threatening the future of America’s first incorporated black township — the hometown of author Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960). In a riveting coming-of-age tale, award-winning author T. R. Simon champions the strength of a people to stand up for justice. Product details Publisher : Candlewick; Reprint edition (May 12, 2020) Language : English Paperback : 272 pages ISBN-10 : 1536208884 ISBN-13 : 978-1536208887 Reading age : 10 - 14 years Grade level : 5 - 9 Item Weight : 8 ounces Dimensions : 5.31 x 0.72 x 7.56 inches