Trouble Don't Last

Samuel is an eleven-year-old slave who lives on the farm until he attempts to run away with a fellow slave. The two travel to different refuges of the Underground Railroad. Samuel uncovers a secret from his own past. This book was the winner of the 2003 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction.

Discussion Questions

1. Who takes care of Samuel? Why?

2. What did Harrison mean when he told Samuel to 'sleep with his top eye open'?

3. If you were Samuel, would you risk your life to be free; or would you live an uncertain life in slavery? Explain.

4. Why did Harrison steal the Hackler's belongings?

5. Why did Harrison want to find the 'River Jordan'?

6. What did 'The River Man' tell Samuel to do?

7. Why did Harrison want to keep the gray yarn?

8. What does Samuel find out about Harrison?

9. Why do you think the Constable let Harrison , Samuel, and Ordee go?

10. Did you enjoy Trouble Don't Last? Tell 'why' or 'why not'. What was your favorite/least favorite part of the book? Explain.

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Last updated: March 31, 2012

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