Journey to a free town
by Delores Lowe Friedman
Houghton Mifflin 2004
Great fit for 4th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- freedom
- courage
- family
- perseverance
- resistance to injustice
- hope
- community
- survival
About this book
This historical fiction story follows an enslaved family as they make a dangerous journey south in search of a "free town," a community where Black families can live without fear. Along the way they face wilderness hazards, slave catchers, and tough choices that test their courage and trust in one another. Clear, accessible text and period details help readers imagine what escape and freedom meant in early America. It’s a compelling read for middle-grade students interested in American history and stories of resilience.
Setting: the American South and Spanish Florida, 1700s
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Journey to a free town right for my child?
Yes — Journey to a free town is a great fit for 4th grade. The reading level is AR 4.4, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include freedom, courage, family.
How long does it take to read Journey to a free town?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Journey to a free town takes around 21m to finish. The book has 3,200 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Journey to a free town have an AR quiz?
Yes — Journey to a free town has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Journey to a free town?
Journey to a free town has an AR reading level of 4.4, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.