"Virgie was always begging to go school with us boys. All summer long she kept asking and asking."

The only girl in a family of five boys, Virgie is determined to attend school with her brothers. Set during Reconstruction, this young heroine proves she is brave, strong, and smart enough to attend school. Virgie's journey to school is at times fearful and extremely lengthy. Once she catches a glimpse of all the books in her classroom, her heart becomes filled with motivation.

"So many books! she said. She touched one softly with her hand. One day I'll read all of these books."

Howard portrays Virgie as determined and focused. Through her persistence, she convinces her family she should attend school just like the boys!

"Boys, Virgie, me and your ma been thinking.

All free people need learning----

Old folks, young folkssmall girls too.

Virgie, next school time you can go."

As the lead character in this story, Virgie's strength is uniquely highlighted and she defies stereotypes often attributed to young girls.

"Raw Head and Bloody Bones might grab you in these woods on the way!  Nelson said, Eat up little old girl like you

But Virgie never blinked an eye. She kept asking."

Lewis' illustrations remarkably complement Howard's text. Each page presents vivid image of Virgie's quest to attend school. The warm water colored paintings capture the togetherness and unifying spirit of the siblings as the walk to school. Virgie's brown toned skin, wide expressive eyes, and genuine smile reveal the vibrant heroic persona of this young girl. Lewis' images of rural farms and forest allow readers to take an amazingly scenic journey down the road that leads to true freedom. A note at the end of the story informs readers that this story is based on the author's family history.