Morning Star (22 page)

Acknowledgments

A few years ago I discovered that I lived in a place where slaves from the southern United States had made their way to freedom in what once was a terminus of the Underground Railroad. This history inspired me, and I decided to write a story for young people. I visited the Black History Museum, located now in Clarksburg, Ontario, and met Carolyn Wilson. She was busy doing some maintenance work but put down her paintbrush, and we talked as she proudly showed me the exhibits in different buildings.

Seeking information, I read several books. One was the biography of Josiah Henson, a man born into slavery in 1789. He eventually became a conductor for the Underground Railroad, helped found a community for escaped slaves in Canada, and traveled widely, speaking out against slavery. In his biography, he related the story of his father's abuse at the hands of a slave owner. As punishment for his attempted escape, Henson's father's ear was severed. This image stayed in my mind and I used it to describe the fate of one of my characters.

When my book was near completion I decided to take a course of study in creative writing at Humber College. I submitted this novel and worked with Lawrence Hill, award-winning author of The Book of Negroes (published as Someone Knows My Name in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand). His suggestions were thoughtful and insightful, and I enjoyed his mentorship immensely.

I am grateful that Second Story Press's Margie Wolfe and Carolyn Jackson took a chance on an unknown writer, providing me with constructive suggestions and encouragement. Alison Kooistra's perceptive and skillful editing was invaluable in shaping the final manuscript.

Family is often the backbone that provides the support for any extended endeavor, and mine is no exception. My love and thanks to them, especially my husband Leonard, whose computer skills and good humor were always readily and generously available.

About the Author

JUDITH PLAXTON is a retired nurse with an avid interest in the environment, local history, and volunteering: she fund raises for the Stephen Lewis Foundation, is involved with the Georgian Lifelong Learning Institute, and visits her local elementary school to help children in the language department. She lives in Clarksburg, Ontario, a small community on the Niagara Escarpment.