This is the story of how one man's careful decisions and many accomplishments not only made his own life better but in many ways changed the history of America.

Starting with these powerful words, Walter Dean Myers takes readers on an inspiring journey through the life of Frederick Douglass.

Frederick Douglass was a self-educated slave in the South who grew up to become an icon. He was a leader of the abolitionist movement, a celebrated writer, an esteemed speaker, and a social reformer, proving that "once you learn to read, you will be forever free."

The story of one of America's most revered figures is brought to life in the text by award-winning author Walter Dean Myers and the sweeping illustrations of artist Floyd Cooper.

From the dust jacket