Freedom to Read: The Story of Teacher Mary Peake and One Mighty Oak Tree

Simon & Schuster, 2026

illustrated by James E. Ransome

From Newbery Honor author Lesa Cline-Ransome and ALA Children’s Literature Legacy Award recipient James Ransome, this inspiring picture book biography tells the story of Mary Peake, a courageous teacher who started a secret school for Black children.

So many found sanctuary in Mary’s secret schoolhouse. They found freedom in letters. In Mary’s teaching, they found a refuge.

★ "A child and a tree mature to reveal an interconnected legacy...Spotlighting a living historical landmark and a pioneering teacher, it’s a thoughtful double portrait that reaches forward and back." —Publisher's Weekly

★ “This biography should be part of every elementary school's curriculum.” —Booklist

★ “An important picture book biography about an unsung figure in Black history....” —School Library Journal