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Running Out of Night
Fans of Elijah of Buxton, Trouble Don't Last, and Stealing Freedom will be drawn to this tale of the incredible journey of an abused twelve-year-old white girl and an escaped slave girl who run away together and form a bond of friendship while seeking freedom.
Every day is a misery for a nameless, motherless Southern girl who is treated cruelly by her pa and brothers. Her life changes forever when a runaway slave named Zenobia turns to her for help and shelter. Longing for her own freedom, the girl decides to run away, and she and Zenobia set off on a harrowing journey. Along the way, Zenobia names the girl Lark, after the bird, for her ability to mimic its song.
Running by night, hiding by day, the girls are pursued by Lark's pa and brothers and by ruthless slave catchers. Brightwell, another runaway slave, joins them, and the three follow secret signs to a stop on the Underground Railroad. When the hideout is raided and Zenobia and Brightwell are captured, Lark sets out alone to rescue her friends.
Every day is a misery for a nameless, motherless Southern girl who is treated cruelly by her pa and brothers. Her life changes forever when a runaway slave named Zenobia turns to her for help and shelter. Longing for her own freedom, the girl decides to run away, and she and Zenobia set off on a harrowing journey. Along the way, Zenobia names the girl Lark, after the bird, for her ability to mimic its song.
Running by night, hiding by day, the girls are pursued by Lark's pa and brothers and by ruthless slave catchers. Brightwell, another runaway slave, joins them, and the three follow secret signs to a stop on the Underground Railroad. When the hideout is raided and Zenobia and Brightwell are captured, Lark sets out alone to rescue her friends.
304 pages, Library Binding
First published November 1, 2014
35 people are currently reading
501 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Lovejoy
18 books60 followersNaturalist, author, and illustrator Sharon Lovejoy’s passion for nature led her to a lifetime of cultivating wonder for grown-ups and children. Her honors include the National Outdoor Book Award for Children’s Literature, 2010 Gold Award from National Parenting Publications, the key to the city of Indianapolis for her work with youth, numerous Garden Writer’s Association awards, and one of the Best Chapter Books Pick by the International Reading Association for her novel Running Out of Night.
As a graduate with Distinction in Art from San Diego State University, Sharon successfully combined her training in art with her love of botany, natural science and history. She worked as a docent naturalist for the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History and for the Smithsonian Institution in the lagoons of Baja, California. Sharon founded Heart's Ease Herb Shop & Gardens in Cambria, California, which gained international acclaim and was featured in numerous books, magazines, and newspapers throughout the world.
Sharon has lectured throughout the United States for over twenty years. She speaks at conferences, educational symposia, museums, botanic gardens, arboreta, and for professional trade associations, libraries, schools, STEM, universities, and gardening organizations.
For 13 years she wrote an award winning column for Country Living GARDENER magazine that was distributed through Canada by The New York Times Syndicate. Sharon is past President of the International Herb Association. She served on the Youth Garden Advisory Panel for the American Horticultural Society and the Advisory Board of KidsGardening.org. Her other professional affiliations include Garden Writers Association, The Authors Guild, Inc., Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance, and Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
As a graduate with Distinction in Art from San Diego State University, Sharon successfully combined her training in art with her love of botany, natural science and history. She worked as a docent naturalist for the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History and for the Smithsonian Institution in the lagoons of Baja, California. Sharon founded Heart's Ease Herb Shop & Gardens in Cambria, California, which gained international acclaim and was featured in numerous books, magazines, and newspapers throughout the world.
Sharon has lectured throughout the United States for over twenty years. She speaks at conferences, educational symposia, museums, botanic gardens, arboreta, and for professional trade associations, libraries, schools, STEM, universities, and gardening organizations.
For 13 years she wrote an award winning column for Country Living GARDENER magazine that was distributed through Canada by The New York Times Syndicate. Sharon is past President of the International Herb Association. She served on the Youth Garden Advisory Panel for the American Horticultural Society and the Advisory Board of KidsGardening.org. Her other professional affiliations include Garden Writers Association, The Authors Guild, Inc., Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance, and Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
October 19, 2014
She's never had a name, and she's never known a friend. She takes care of her father's house and is treated brutally. Everything changes when Zenobia, a runaway slave, stumbles into her home. Zenobia names the girl Lark, and the two set out together, determined to find their freedom.
Such an interesting story. Very different from other middle grade of YA stories I've read about slaves running during the 1800s. First there is the aspect that Lark is white, but no less a slave than Zenobia is. She realizes though, that while she was cruelly treated, it was still nothing like what Zenobia and other Black slaves suffered.
Unusually, story begins and ends in Virginia. Zenobia and Lark run, but they never actually get very far away from Lark's home, despite all their traveling and hardships. This book really showed the ruthless determination that slave catchers had, especially when a big reward was involved. And Lark's father is not about to let her go so easily. We never actually see any of the characters safe to freedom. We never see them get out of Virginia.
Zenobia knows about the Underground Railroad, but despite that, it's not so easy to jump on. And even when they do find a safe house, they're not safe. That was definitely a theme of the book, looking for safety and freedom, never quite finding it, never stopping hoping it's out there somewhere.
Zenobia and Lark are taken in by a Quaker woman, Auntie, who shelters them and arranges for Zenobia's escape to Canada. Canada, at this point in history, is pretty much the only safe place to run to, because even if a slave made it to the North, they could still be captured and returned. The Quakers believe in nonviolence and are against slavery. Many in the Quaker community are becoming reluctant to help runaways, because the runaways' harsh treatment is coming down on them too. Indeed, when Zenobia is discovered and taken, Auntie is taken too. She never stops believing that nonviolence is the only answer though.
Lark undergoes some changes throughout the book. At first, she's too afraid to have anything to do with Zenobia. She doesn't want any more trouble then she already has. But she can't help but see Zenobia's fear is similar to her own. And Lark starts to think about why she's never left the people who hurt her. She realizes she's been a slave too, and that she doesn't have to anymore. She can care and help other people, too.
The book ends with hope. And we are left so wanting these characters to find their Promised Land, after everything they've been through. Great historical fiction read.
Running Out of Night comes out November 1, 2014.
Such an interesting story. Very different from other middle grade of YA stories I've read about slaves running during the 1800s. First there is the aspect that Lark is white, but no less a slave than Zenobia is. She realizes though, that while she was cruelly treated, it was still nothing like what Zenobia and other Black slaves suffered.
Unusually, story begins and ends in Virginia. Zenobia and Lark run, but they never actually get very far away from Lark's home, despite all their traveling and hardships. This book really showed the ruthless determination that slave catchers had, especially when a big reward was involved. And Lark's father is not about to let her go so easily. We never actually see any of the characters safe to freedom. We never see them get out of Virginia.
Zenobia knows about the Underground Railroad, but despite that, it's not so easy to jump on. And even when they do find a safe house, they're not safe. That was definitely a theme of the book, looking for safety and freedom, never quite finding it, never stopping hoping it's out there somewhere.
Zenobia and Lark are taken in by a Quaker woman, Auntie, who shelters them and arranges for Zenobia's escape to Canada. Canada, at this point in history, is pretty much the only safe place to run to, because even if a slave made it to the North, they could still be captured and returned. The Quakers believe in nonviolence and are against slavery. Many in the Quaker community are becoming reluctant to help runaways, because the runaways' harsh treatment is coming down on them too. Indeed, when Zenobia is discovered and taken, Auntie is taken too. She never stops believing that nonviolence is the only answer though.
Lark undergoes some changes throughout the book. At first, she's too afraid to have anything to do with Zenobia. She doesn't want any more trouble then she already has. But she can't help but see Zenobia's fear is similar to her own. And Lark starts to think about why she's never left the people who hurt her. She realizes she's been a slave too, and that she doesn't have to anymore. She can care and help other people, too.
The book ends with hope. And we are left so wanting these characters to find their Promised Land, after everything they've been through. Great historical fiction read.
Running Out of Night comes out November 1, 2014.
June 4, 2017
This book is the author's debut novel, and it was very well written. I loved the story of two girls from very different situations and how they join together to free each other from the slavery they are experiencing. The book jacket describes the story by saying, "Readers will readily connect with Lark and Zenobia in this suspense-filled journey that explores why being a slave is about more than the color of a person's skin." Parts of the story were hard to hear because it's hard to remember that at one time our country was experiencing these things, but it was a good reminder that through the Underground Railroad and other brave people many slaves found freedom!
September 16, 2018
Girl’s Ma died birthin’ her and her Pa and brothers treat her like a slave. The only kindness she had in her life is now gone with the recent death of her grandfather. When a girl with skin the color of dark clover honey shows up on Girl’s doorstep looking for food, Girl is worried trouble will follow. Trouble does follow when Pa and the brothers return home with the news of a reward for a runaway slave AND they discover their food is missing. Zenobia has been separated from her family by the cruelties of slavery but she can see that in some ways she is more fortunate than the girl she names Lark. Lark has never known the love of family and has never had it in her to fight back. Zenobia helps Lark run with her. At first Lark is reluctant to leave with Zenobia but as they run through the forests, escape slave hunters and her Pa’s dogs, she discovers the power of friendship. Lark is determined to go on this journey side by side with Zenobia all the way to the “Promised Land” wherever that may be!
This is an interesting runaway slave novel because the perspective is from that of an abused white child. At first I had hoped the book had a dual narrative with Zenobia telling her story. It’s VERY disappointing that the girl of color ends up as sidekick but I do think it was a wise decision for the author to write in the voice she knows, the voice of HER ancestors. I did find the “authentic’ voice jarring because of the dialect. I’m not a huge fan of stories written in dialect. The bits of folklore above each chapter were very interesting though laughably funny in some points from a modern perspective. The plot was so engaging I just couldn’t put the book down! I stayed up too late on work nights reading this. My only major complaint with the plot is that is goes on and on and feels a bit repetitive. The villains are so stupid and a couple of children outsmart them. I didn’t like how dumb the villains were. Most of the adults in the book were villains or unable to help the children. It read kind of a like a period Series of Unfortunate Events.
Lark is a plucky, strong girl. She has endured so much abuse, it is difficult to imagine how anyone could survive in that environment. I don’t understand why her grandfather a)didn’t give her a name and b)didn’t make plans for her future before he died. He passed on his folk wisdom to her. While it comes in handy, it doesn’t help her situation. I liked how she didn’t want to help Zenobia at first and she wasn’t automatically imbued with modern sensibilities. Lark is very much of her place and time but her own abuse has made her empathetic to Zenobia’s plight and the journey they go on helps them bond. (It’s not quite Huck and Jim but it will do for tween girls). I also really liked Zenobia’s voice. She is STRONG-stronger than strong to have hope and the will to survive after her family is taken from her. She’s smart to run when she did but it isn’t easy given the Fugitive Slave Act. Zenobia has to be brave, smart and tough to run away and take Lark with her. It’s unusual that the enslaved girl has a special name and is the one to give the white protagonist her name. American Girl fans will note some similarities to Addy’s background when Zenobia shares her story. There is a third main character here, Brightwell. I did not like the introduction of a boy to the story. I felt like he automatically bonded with Zenobia but didn’t quite click with Lark and vice versa. He got in the way of should have been a girl power/female friendship novel.
Supporting characters include lots of villains like Lark’s Pa and brothers. What makes her Pa so mean? Whiskey or why does he drink whiskey? Was he always like that or just after Ma died? Why do the brothers blindly follow? Does Pa want Lark back because she belongs to him/his pride is wounded or because he really does feel something for her? Lark doesn’t know. Lark’s family are just two-dimensional villains. There’s also the woman-man and her male companion who are as mean and cruel as Lark’s Pa. They are also not very bright. The worst most stupid villain is Shag. He is as stupid as it gets in this novel and I found that unrealistic and a little silly. On the good side is Auntie. She is incredible! I admire her very much except for her Quaker non-violent tactics sometimes but her warnings keep the characters from doing things they may regret later. Asa is another child hero. He turned out to be a surprise after his initial introduction.
This book is best enjoyed by kids 11+ probably in the classroom where the teacher can help explain the history behind the story.
February 28, 2018
I liked it but somehow walking away I feel like it was missing something. It was a decent story and I do like the language the author used. The Southern aspect could be hear just through the writing alone and the author also described things in a way that was unique. One line mentioned that someone felt "as heavy as the stones Pa used to drown the spring kittens." I was just dumbfounded by this description. It gives depth to the meaning of "heavy" and how the character was really feeling about the situation. Plus as a kitten lover, I had to gasp at such cruelty from the Pa even though I knew to expect nothing less from that character. I think the ending felt incomplete and would have liked to have seen a more concrete solution to everything. Overall, I think it was a decent book and the chapters usually ended on a cliffhanger which kept you reading, which I do enjoy.
February 22, 2015
"Mama gave her last breath just as I took my first."
That simple sentence both opens Sharon Lovejoy's YA novel and defines the life of its main character, twelve-year-old, unnamed "Girl."
Girl lives with her brothers and her bad-tempered pa, "born tired and raised lazy," on the small farm that was her grandfather's in the blue-hazy ridges of eastern Virgina in 1858. After the death of that grandfather, her mother's father and "the onliest piece of softness in the family," Girl has become housekeeper and servant to the remaining menfolk, tending the garden, cooking, cleaning and staying clear of their casual abuse as best she can, lest she be "kicked like one of the huntin hounds."
Still, Girl hasn't given in. She is sustained by memories of her grandpa and all he taught her about wild and garden plants, stars, and animals, plus daily conversations with the mother she only knows from her grandpa's stories.
Until Zenobia, the skinny and half-starved girl her own age but with skin "the color of dark clover honey" appears at the door, and the combination of folk wisdom and common sense Girl uses to stay alive is overridden by her tender heart. Girl gives Zenobia the crust of cornbread she picked off her brother's plate for her own breakfast, and some dried apples from their stores.
Just then come heavy steps on the porch: Girl's pa. She hustles Zenobia into the cellar to hide just in time. Her pa demands his shotgun and powder, plus "victuals"—he is setting out to hunt an escaped slave, a girl with a bounty on her head. The very girl hiding silent in the darkness beneath the oak floor.
Girl and Zenobia make a run for it, first separately and then together, walking the creek at night so the hounds can't smell their trail, heading for the town where the "strange Quaker folk" live, a stop on the Underground Railway. The two run into all manner of dangers on the way, from deadly copperhead snakes to equally deadly and much more cruel slave-catchers.
Their story is beautifully told, a seamless evocation of time, place and culture, from the language and the bits of folk wisdom that open each chapter, to Girl's descriptions of the plants she loves, the stars in the night sky, and the calling of the birds, including the "yellow lark" (meadowlark) whose song she whistles to perfection.
Running Out of Night is a hero's journey, a gripping tale of both great beauty and great peril, and the two girls, one white, one black, are transformed by their desperate flight in ways that ring true both for their time and today's world. The issues that this novel wrestles with—racism, violence, poverty, ignorance and greed—are also all-too-relevant to our time.
I'm not going to give away the twists and turns of this compelling tale, or the ending to Girl and Zenobia's journey. You'll have to read Running Out of Night to find out. You'll be glad you did.
by Susan J. Tweit
for Story Circle Book Reviews
reviewing books by, for, and about women
That simple sentence both opens Sharon Lovejoy's YA novel and defines the life of its main character, twelve-year-old, unnamed "Girl."
Although Pa and my big brothers never said they blamed me for her death, I always felt it achin inside me, like the rotten tooth our blacksmith plied out of my mouth. Why else would a pa and his boys let a little girl come into the world and live for twelve years without givin her a name?
My brothers and Pa always looked through me, as though I weren't but a thin sheet of mica between them and the world. Sometimes I had to step outside to see my shadow afore I knowed for sure that there were a real person inside me.
Girl lives with her brothers and her bad-tempered pa, "born tired and raised lazy," on the small farm that was her grandfather's in the blue-hazy ridges of eastern Virgina in 1858. After the death of that grandfather, her mother's father and "the onliest piece of softness in the family," Girl has become housekeeper and servant to the remaining menfolk, tending the garden, cooking, cleaning and staying clear of their casual abuse as best she can, lest she be "kicked like one of the huntin hounds."
Still, Girl hasn't given in. She is sustained by memories of her grandpa and all he taught her about wild and garden plants, stars, and animals, plus daily conversations with the mother she only knows from her grandpa's stories.
Until Zenobia, the skinny and half-starved girl her own age but with skin "the color of dark clover honey" appears at the door, and the combination of folk wisdom and common sense Girl uses to stay alive is overridden by her tender heart. Girl gives Zenobia the crust of cornbread she picked off her brother's plate for her own breakfast, and some dried apples from their stores.
Just then come heavy steps on the porch: Girl's pa. She hustles Zenobia into the cellar to hide just in time. Her pa demands his shotgun and powder, plus "victuals"—he is setting out to hunt an escaped slave, a girl with a bounty on her head. The very girl hiding silent in the darkness beneath the oak floor.
Girl and Zenobia make a run for it, first separately and then together, walking the creek at night so the hounds can't smell their trail, heading for the town where the "strange Quaker folk" live, a stop on the Underground Railway. The two run into all manner of dangers on the way, from deadly copperhead snakes to equally deadly and much more cruel slave-catchers.
Their story is beautifully told, a seamless evocation of time, place and culture, from the language and the bits of folk wisdom that open each chapter, to Girl's descriptions of the plants she loves, the stars in the night sky, and the calling of the birds, including the "yellow lark" (meadowlark) whose song she whistles to perfection.
Running Out of Night is a hero's journey, a gripping tale of both great beauty and great peril, and the two girls, one white, one black, are transformed by their desperate flight in ways that ring true both for their time and today's world. The issues that this novel wrestles with—racism, violence, poverty, ignorance and greed—are also all-too-relevant to our time.
I'm not going to give away the twists and turns of this compelling tale, or the ending to Girl and Zenobia's journey. You'll have to read Running Out of Night to find out. You'll be glad you did.
by Susan J. Tweit
for Story Circle Book Reviews
reviewing books by, for, and about women
November 19, 2014
A twelve-year-old white girl with no name--her family simply calls her Girl--befriends a runaway slave named Zenobia who names her Lark. Both girls set off in search of freedom since it's clear from her abusive treatment at the hands of her father and brothers that Lark, too, is enslaved in her own way. The girls must travel at night and hide and sleep by day since not only are Lark's family members in pursuit of her, but they and other slave catchers want to find Zenobia and collect the reward that is offered for her. Just when they reach a safe house and are preparing to head to the North, the worst thing that can possibly happen does, and once again, Lark, Zenobia, and Brightwell, another runaway slave with whom they have connected, find themselves in trouble with no help in sight. Each chapter begins with a proverb or wise saying that connects to nature. Readers will be swept up in the drama and fast pace of this powerful debut novel. As Lark demonstrates, sometimes you have to leave the place where you are most familiar in order to find freedom.
March 20, 2016
After a slow start (if only to get used to the 1860's Virginian country dialect it which the story is written), I became utterly absorbed in this story of escape, of abuse, of the horrors inflicted on slaves, as well as the hope of reaching the Promised Land through the Underground Railroad. There are some raw scenes that will sear themselves into the minds of young readers: hand it to those who have some background knowledge and prepare to hand them some tissues.
August 15, 2017
Lark and Zenobia are two runaways trying to hold on to hope and find freedom. For Lark it's freedom from an abusive father, for Zenobia it's freedom from slavery. They become each other's family, a family that grows larger as they cross paths with other slaves on the run, and with Quaker friends who will help them in their escape.
3.5 for my own personal reaction to the story (I can't say I was ever engrossed), but rounded up to 4 stars because this book does quite a few things very well.
The story is told from Lark’s perspective. As a poor white girl living in Virginia in the 1800s, her voice naturally features a Southern dialect, and it’s written in a way that’s great for younger readers. It’s not so overwhelming that they won’t be able to grasp the content once they’re used to it, and it’s extremely consistent which made it easy for me to hear Lark’s lilting voice as I read. In most instances of dialect writing in literature for young readers, I find myself annoyed that the dialect isn’t fleshed out enough or that it’s inconsistent. I didn’t find either problem with Lovejoy’s writing. Depending on the reader they may need some help here and there, but overall I’d say this is an excellent foray into dialect writing for younger readers that will make it easier for them to pick up things like Huckleberry Finn or Tom Sawyer later on.
Aside from the writing style, the story features plenty of food for thought and jumping off points for classroom discussion. Readers are introduced to the Quakers who helped slaves on the Underground Railroad, learn a little about Harriett Tubman, and hear about the Fugitive Slave Act. They see a bit of the harshness slaves endured and the horrible logic and logistics of slavery, but this difficult topic is never too overwhelming for the target audience.
The Kirkus review for the book mentioned that it was concerning that Lark and Zenobia’s situations seemed to be handled as if they’re equal to one another. I didn’t find that to be the case at all. Instead I noted several instances where Lark understands herself that even though what she’s experienced in the past and what she’s experiencing in the moment are awful, it’s nothing compared to what Zenobia and the others have gone through.
I too would have been concerned had Lark and Zenobia’s lives been shown as equally bad. But Lark as the first person narrator repeatedly recognizes that she has it better off than Zenobia and other slaves, so I’m not sure where the evidence for the claim is found.
With a cliffhanger at the end of nearly every chapter, this story easily pulls the reader along. Overall I mark this down as a solid addition to the middle grade historical fiction genre. Its strongest asset in my opinion is as an introduction to dialect writing, but there’s plenty here to get readers thinking about the history of slavery in the US.
3.5 for my own personal reaction to the story (I can't say I was ever engrossed), but rounded up to 4 stars because this book does quite a few things very well.
The story is told from Lark’s perspective. As a poor white girl living in Virginia in the 1800s, her voice naturally features a Southern dialect, and it’s written in a way that’s great for younger readers. It’s not so overwhelming that they won’t be able to grasp the content once they’re used to it, and it’s extremely consistent which made it easy for me to hear Lark’s lilting voice as I read. In most instances of dialect writing in literature for young readers, I find myself annoyed that the dialect isn’t fleshed out enough or that it’s inconsistent. I didn’t find either problem with Lovejoy’s writing. Depending on the reader they may need some help here and there, but overall I’d say this is an excellent foray into dialect writing for younger readers that will make it easier for them to pick up things like Huckleberry Finn or Tom Sawyer later on.
Aside from the writing style, the story features plenty of food for thought and jumping off points for classroom discussion. Readers are introduced to the Quakers who helped slaves on the Underground Railroad, learn a little about Harriett Tubman, and hear about the Fugitive Slave Act. They see a bit of the harshness slaves endured and the horrible logic and logistics of slavery, but this difficult topic is never too overwhelming for the target audience.
The Kirkus review for the book mentioned that it was concerning that Lark and Zenobia’s situations seemed to be handled as if they’re equal to one another. I didn’t find that to be the case at all. Instead I noted several instances where Lark understands herself that even though what she’s experienced in the past and what she’s experiencing in the moment are awful, it’s nothing compared to what Zenobia and the others have gone through.
Life with Pa and my brothers were bad. No love for the findin. But all the time the bad happened I hoped that someday I could be free. Zenobia, Brightwell, and Armour, they never felt that hope. They was slaves. Bought, sold, and owned like they was no better than a hogshead of molasses. They didn’t have no hope for nothin more.
I too would have been concerned had Lark and Zenobia’s lives been shown as equally bad. But Lark as the first person narrator repeatedly recognizes that she has it better off than Zenobia and other slaves, so I’m not sure where the evidence for the claim is found.
With a cliffhanger at the end of nearly every chapter, this story easily pulls the reader along. Overall I mark this down as a solid addition to the middle grade historical fiction genre. Its strongest asset in my opinion is as an introduction to dialect writing, but there’s plenty here to get readers thinking about the history of slavery in the US.
December 14, 2018
Lark is a poor white girl who is mistreated by her pa and brothers. When a runaway slave girl shows up on her porch, she makes the quick decision to hide her in the food cellar. Together the girls run to the woods, but Pa and the dogs are soon on their trail. Dangers await in the woods, but eventually the girls and a boy named Brightwell make it to a Quaker hideout. They are captured by a hateful man who aims to return Lark and the slaves to their owners for the reward money. Lark's quick thinking saves them.
Lark is a perfect protagonist for this story. She's brave and clever. Without her the others would not have made it as far as they did. She builds a strong bond with the slaves and abolitionists because they are the first people to ever be kind to her. Zenobia is every bit a sister and she can't bear the thought of losing her.
This is a good story, but there are books that do a better job addressing slavery. I was disappointed with the portrayal of the Quakers. The use of "thee" didn't feel natural because it was the only "old" word used by them in the story. Auntie frustrated me with her constant insistence that Lark not do anything to harm the hateful slave catchers. I'm glad she didn't listen to that advice. All in all, they didn't make any progress in their journey. They ended up back in Waterford. The underground railroad was mentioned. I wish it had been a part of the story.
I like the cover, but it could use a better title.
Lark is a perfect protagonist for this story. She's brave and clever. Without her the others would not have made it as far as they did. She builds a strong bond with the slaves and abolitionists because they are the first people to ever be kind to her. Zenobia is every bit a sister and she can't bear the thought of losing her.
This is a good story, but there are books that do a better job addressing slavery. I was disappointed with the portrayal of the Quakers. The use of "thee" didn't feel natural because it was the only "old" word used by them in the story. Auntie frustrated me with her constant insistence that Lark not do anything to harm the hateful slave catchers. I'm glad she didn't listen to that advice. All in all, they didn't make any progress in their journey. They ended up back in Waterford. The underground railroad was mentioned. I wish it had been a part of the story.
I like the cover, but it could use a better title.
June 3, 2025
An engaging and fast-paced middle-grade novel about an abused white girl who helps a Black runaway enslaved girl escape capture, and who ends up escaping to a new life herself. There's lots of trouble waiting for the two girls, who quickly become friends, as they try to stay hidden on their way to a village of Quakers and access to the Underground Railroad.
The author was inspired by the Quakers in her own family past who were abolitionists, and the book does a good job of introducing young readers to the horrors of both slavery and domestic/familial abuse while ensuring nothing is too gory for the intended child readership. I did find myself wishing the author hadn't reused a particular plot point with both Zenobia and Brightwell; the book's ending also felt too quickly and neatly wrapped up, which deflated the emotional tension the book had been building toward for so many chapters. There was dialect used throughout, but it was rendered in a way where I could follow the story without problems; I was a bit put off by it at first but grew accustomed to it fairly quickly.
Still, a solid read to help younger readers learn about history and to grapple with the complexity and many forms of evil.
The author was inspired by the Quakers in her own family past who were abolitionists, and the book does a good job of introducing young readers to the horrors of both slavery and domestic/familial abuse while ensuring nothing is too gory for the intended child readership. I did find myself wishing the author hadn't reused a particular plot point with both Zenobia and Brightwell; the book's ending also felt too quickly and neatly wrapped up, which deflated the emotional tension the book had been building toward for so many chapters. There was dialect used throughout, but it was rendered in a way where I could follow the story without problems; I was a bit put off by it at first but grew accustomed to it fairly quickly.
Still, a solid read to help younger readers learn about history and to grapple with the complexity and many forms of evil.
January 18, 2018
This no name girl goes on an adventure running away from wasn't really a home in the first place.
The pore nameless girl is treated badly by her own family. Her dad never named her because when she was born her mom died and he decided that he didn't like her so much to not even name the girl. Now she is treated like a slave in her own house. When she meets a run away slave named Zenobia and helps her they become friends and run away for a better life.
The pore nameless girl is treated badly by her own family. Her dad never named her because when she was born her mom died and he decided that he didn't like her so much to not even name the girl. Now she is treated like a slave in her own house. When she meets a run away slave named Zenobia and helps her they become friends and run away for a better life.
March 24, 2017
Lark is a formerly nameless girl whose father and brothers use her basically as a house slave. When she meets up with runaway slave, Zenobia, she gains a friend, a name and a chance at a life of freedom. Very action-packed and heart wrenching - it seems as though there are too many set backs and narrow escapes, but I cannot imagine the hardship slaves endured to gain freedom! The folklore and superstitions at the beginning of each chapter are fascinating additions to the story.
February 5, 2019
Good story, interesting characters, never boring--I'm surprised no one ever thought about making this book into a movie. I'd recommend it to children, teens or adults. It's the kind of book that transcends the age barrier. Four stars.
August 24, 2017
3.75, it's a cute story
April 26, 2018
"Running out of night" is a really good book, I loved it a lot, but it wasn't the best book I've read before.
October 31, 2018
Great book! I hope there is a sequel!
June 2, 2019
Great historical fiction novel. I really loved every character.
January 27, 2020
A thrilling tale of brokenness, love, racism and worldview, you will enter in the life of Girl as she as she learns what it means to have family in a broken society.
January 6, 2022
Lovely book about children in slavery that describes the experience in a realistic yet gentle way that was easy to understand when I was younger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2024
Children’s book from the library! Great story about the Underground Railroad and slaves escaping to freedom. However, there is violence in it, so be aware of that. Probably good for 10-14 years old.
August 4, 2015
Categories/Genres for this class fulfilled by this book: Middle Grades
Estimate of age level of interest: Grades 5-10
Estimate of reading level: Grade 5
Brief description:
This is the story of a young white girl who is abused by her father and brothers. Then, a runaway slave girl shows up on her doorstep and everything changes. The two girls decide they are going to runaway together, trying to find a place where they can be free.
Identify at least 2 characteristics of this genre and subgenre and discuss how they appear in your book:
Historic middle grade fiction needs to bring its reader to place and time in the past. This novel does that. It is set in the south as the two girls run toward the north, particularly Canada. Readers learn about the role of Quakers in the abolitionist movement. These details bring the reader to the place and time of the action.
Middle grade fiction should also address themes that are important to its audience. In this book, Lark and Zenobia—despite their apparent differences—find that they have many things in common and they develop a true and deep friendship. While their race could put them at odds at this time, they instead need each other. They have the same issues; both want to find freedom from their oppressors. It does not matter who you are. Abuse is scary and something to be run from.
In what ways and how well does the book as a whole serve its intended audience?:
This book will appeal to middle school and lower high school students because of its believable charcters. Lovejoy really brings them the life through her use of colloquial dialogue and setting description. Also, the story is fast-paced. Lark and Zenobia don’t stay out of trouble long, and the description of their situation leaves the reader on the edge of their seats. The chapters are short, and this leads to it feeling like a very fast read, something that kids of this age like.
Awards if any:
DCF Nominee 2015
Links to published reviews from professional sources:
Booklist November 1, 2014 (Vol. 111, No. 5)
Horn Book Guide Spring 2015
Kirkus Reviews October 1, 2014
School Library Journal August 1, 2014
Estimate of age level of interest: Grades 5-10
Estimate of reading level: Grade 5
Brief description:
This is the story of a young white girl who is abused by her father and brothers. Then, a runaway slave girl shows up on her doorstep and everything changes. The two girls decide they are going to runaway together, trying to find a place where they can be free.
Identify at least 2 characteristics of this genre and subgenre and discuss how they appear in your book:
Historic middle grade fiction needs to bring its reader to place and time in the past. This novel does that. It is set in the south as the two girls run toward the north, particularly Canada. Readers learn about the role of Quakers in the abolitionist movement. These details bring the reader to the place and time of the action.
Middle grade fiction should also address themes that are important to its audience. In this book, Lark and Zenobia—despite their apparent differences—find that they have many things in common and they develop a true and deep friendship. While their race could put them at odds at this time, they instead need each other. They have the same issues; both want to find freedom from their oppressors. It does not matter who you are. Abuse is scary and something to be run from.
In what ways and how well does the book as a whole serve its intended audience?:
This book will appeal to middle school and lower high school students because of its believable charcters. Lovejoy really brings them the life through her use of colloquial dialogue and setting description. Also, the story is fast-paced. Lark and Zenobia don’t stay out of trouble long, and the description of their situation leaves the reader on the edge of their seats. The chapters are short, and this leads to it feeling like a very fast read, something that kids of this age like.
Awards if any:
DCF Nominee 2015
Links to published reviews from professional sources:
Booklist November 1, 2014 (Vol. 111, No. 5)
Horn Book Guide Spring 2015
Kirkus Reviews October 1, 2014
School Library Journal August 1, 2014
August 11, 2015
Running Out of Night is a twist on the typical slave's-race-to-freedom story. The book is narrated from the first person point of view of a white girl from an abusive home which never even bothered to give her a name after her mother died in childbirth. Girl is twelve years old and, essentially, a slave and punching bag to her white trash father and two older brothers. When Zenobia stumbles across Girl's family cabin on her escape, Girl ends up going with the black runaway. While their relationship is tense at first, their troubles and adventures bring them together as they flee not only slave catchers galore, but also Girl's--who Zenobia names Lark--father and hound dogs. While the story itself is actually really good, I couldn't stand the writing. I see what the author was doing here, but I didn't like it. The book is written in a Virginian dialect of a relatively uneducated redneck. While Lark is sweet (which allows her character to develop), she's incredibly superstitious, ignorant, and wrestles with her nurtured prejudices. It was really smartly done, but it drove me crazy. I'm a bit of a speed reader, and I had to slow down to understand what in the world Lark was talking or thinking about because her superstitious mind kept jumping. The misspells drove me insane, even though they were clearly on purpose. The grammar was just weird, but coming from Missouri, I understood it. There are a lot of really positive reviews from what looks to be younger girls on Goodreads for Running Out of Night, so I think I'm the odd reader out in that I can't get over the way it was written enough to just enjoy the quality of the story, which was pretty high. Also, I wanted to scream at Lark to get rid of her lucky buckeye. I've never considered myself a straight up pessimist, but these girls' adventure must be the unluckiest string of events to happen to literary characters since the Baudelaire children and then some.
April 21, 2015
Reviewed by Ms. Leger of Leger's Ledger. Full review can be found HERE at I'd So Rather Be Reading.
I enjoyed reading Running out of Night. Lovejoy did a remarkable job researching this era in history and it is a fantastic first novel. I was impressed with the use of dialect during the set time period of 1858. The dialect was used in a way that was true to the south but not so broken that a student would not be able to understand it. There was little to no confusion as to what they meant in the southern slang; I had little to no trouble reading it through and did not stumble on any words.
Due to the age of my students I am always looking for a good example of dialect and this story hit the mark. I felt the book had a Twain'ish feel to it; something that you will better understand when you read it.
The plot moved at a steady pace and held my interest. There is a proverb at the beginning of every chapter that warms you up for some event that was sure to happen in the next few pages. I found myself guessing and anxious to see how it would fit in.
Proverb:
If a candle burns blue, it is a token of bad luck, for it indicates the presence of a death sperrit.
Moment in the chapter: The Candle on the table guttered, wavered, and burned blue—the bad death light of sperrits.
By the end I really felt for the main character and still wanted to know if she would ever be reunited with Zenobia. And I can't help but hope that there will be a sequel or at the very least a novella.
Bravo Lovejoy, it was excellent and Twain worthy. I would recommend this book to my 6th grade students.
Ms. Leger
(pronounced lay-jay)
I enjoyed reading Running out of Night. Lovejoy did a remarkable job researching this era in history and it is a fantastic first novel. I was impressed with the use of dialect during the set time period of 1858. The dialect was used in a way that was true to the south but not so broken that a student would not be able to understand it. There was little to no confusion as to what they meant in the southern slang; I had little to no trouble reading it through and did not stumble on any words.
Due to the age of my students I am always looking for a good example of dialect and this story hit the mark. I felt the book had a Twain'ish feel to it; something that you will better understand when you read it.
The plot moved at a steady pace and held my interest. There is a proverb at the beginning of every chapter that warms you up for some event that was sure to happen in the next few pages. I found myself guessing and anxious to see how it would fit in.
Proverb:
If a candle burns blue, it is a token of bad luck, for it indicates the presence of a death sperrit.
Moment in the chapter: The Candle on the table guttered, wavered, and burned blue—the bad death light of sperrits.
By the end I really felt for the main character and still wanted to know if she would ever be reunited with Zenobia. And I can't help but hope that there will be a sequel or at the very least a novella.
Bravo Lovejoy, it was excellent and Twain worthy. I would recommend this book to my 6th grade students.
Ms. Leger
(pronounced lay-jay)
July 27, 2015
Estimate of age level of interest: 4-8
Estimate of reading level: F&P level V, grade level 6
Girl lives with her father and brothers, who treat her badly and never bothered to give her a name when her mother died as she was born. When Zenobia, an escaped slave, shows up at her door, things quickly change for Girl. The two girls run away together, heading north, and the story follows their adventures. It is told in first person (in a somewhat distracting dialect) by Girl, who is renamed Lark by Zenobia.
Genre: Fiction
Sub-genre: Historical fiction
Historical fiction often blends a fictional story into a factual setting. This book does a particularly good job of blending fact and fiction, especially in the use folklore from the time and the knowledge Lark has about plants and the natural world. Historical fiction also often uses the dialect or language of the time (Huck). This is less successful in Running Out of Night---while it is understandable that the various slave catchers don’t use the extremely offensive language they may have used at the time, Lark’s dialect feels inconsistent and distracting to the story.
With short chapters and an action-packed plot, this book is quick moving for those readers who can get past the somewhat distracting dialect it is written in. The plucky heroines will likely appeal to readers of all gender identities. The subject matter is upsetting and at times violent, although the descriptions are not particularly graphic. This is a good introduction to the Underground Railroad.
Reviews from professional sources: Booklist 11/01/14, Library Media Connection 03/01/15, Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books 01/01/15, Publishers Weekly 09/29/14 all available on Titlewave at http://www.titlewave.com/search?SID=c...
Estimate of reading level: F&P level V, grade level 6
Girl lives with her father and brothers, who treat her badly and never bothered to give her a name when her mother died as she was born. When Zenobia, an escaped slave, shows up at her door, things quickly change for Girl. The two girls run away together, heading north, and the story follows their adventures. It is told in first person (in a somewhat distracting dialect) by Girl, who is renamed Lark by Zenobia.
Genre: Fiction
Sub-genre: Historical fiction
Historical fiction often blends a fictional story into a factual setting. This book does a particularly good job of blending fact and fiction, especially in the use folklore from the time and the knowledge Lark has about plants and the natural world. Historical fiction also often uses the dialect or language of the time (Huck). This is less successful in Running Out of Night---while it is understandable that the various slave catchers don’t use the extremely offensive language they may have used at the time, Lark’s dialect feels inconsistent and distracting to the story.
With short chapters and an action-packed plot, this book is quick moving for those readers who can get past the somewhat distracting dialect it is written in. The plucky heroines will likely appeal to readers of all gender identities. The subject matter is upsetting and at times violent, although the descriptions are not particularly graphic. This is a good introduction to the Underground Railroad.
Reviews from professional sources: Booklist 11/01/14, Library Media Connection 03/01/15, Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books 01/01/15, Publishers Weekly 09/29/14 all available on Titlewave at http://www.titlewave.com/search?SID=c...
January 20, 2017
Running Out of Night by Sharon Lovejoy follows Lark and Zenobia on their escape to freedom: Lark from an abusive family and Zenobia from slavery. An unusual aspect of the escape saga is that they never make it out of Virginia. Despite their traveling and hardships, they cover what seemed no more than a few miles from Lark's home. Their goal is to get connected to the Underground Railroad, but even with Zenobia's knowledge, the railroad isn't easy to find. When they finally find a safe house run by Quaker neighbors, the refuge is quickly discovered and destroyed by slave hunters. The main theme of Running Out of Night is seeking safety/freedom but failing to find it—definitely a shocking sort of theme for a story meant for younger readers.
What made this book so utterly unenjoyable was the narrator's voice. Lark speaks in an uneducated-Virginian dialect that is nearly incomprehensible. I've never had to read a book so slowly in order to understand what a character is saying. Lark is sweet, but she's also superstitious, ignorant, and prejudiced. Misspellings, though purposeful, were distracting. The narrator was impossible to trust, because on two occasions the author chose to portray a character who was dead, and then suddenly not dead. Even after re-reading those chapters I could not clearly explain if the author used that technique to further deepen Lark's ignorance (and therefore make her more sympathetic to younger, smarter readers), or if it was a failed attempt at adding tension to the plot.
Running Out of Night would have been better told through Zenobia's perspective and had focused more on the involvement of the Quakers in the Underground Railroad. There are better books to read.
For more reviews and recommendations, check out my blog at More Books, Please.
What made this book so utterly unenjoyable was the narrator's voice. Lark speaks in an uneducated-Virginian dialect that is nearly incomprehensible. I've never had to read a book so slowly in order to understand what a character is saying. Lark is sweet, but she's also superstitious, ignorant, and prejudiced. Misspellings, though purposeful, were distracting. The narrator was impossible to trust, because on two occasions the author chose to portray a character who was dead, and then suddenly not dead. Even after re-reading those chapters I could not clearly explain if the author used that technique to further deepen Lark's ignorance (and therefore make her more sympathetic to younger, smarter readers), or if it was a failed attempt at adding tension to the plot.
Running Out of Night would have been better told through Zenobia's perspective and had focused more on the involvement of the Quakers in the Underground Railroad. There are better books to read.
For more reviews and recommendations, check out my blog at More Books, Please.
May 28, 2015
The year is 1858 and as Girl was born, her mother left the world. She lived with her Pa and her brothers who choose to treat her harshly and relentless and when a Negra girl shows up in her yard, she realized that although she thought their two worlds were different, they were rather the same. With a bounty on her head, Zenobia is taken in by the compassionate Girl, who knows the consequences of her actions should her family find out. Speaking to her mother whose spirit she feels occupies the room, she asks for guidance and together, the two girls set off for freedom. One girl knowing what waits outside the door, the other knowing what freedom she is leaving behind and both of them knowing that they are prisoners to the people around them. As they head to Waterford, they are not alone for long, as they meet others on the Underground Railroad. It’s a new world for Girl and Zenobia has a companion to keep her company. The hidden dangers for these two young girls are the slave hunters who live for the bounty posters, the dollars filling their pockets. Each girl is searching for their freedom and their posters represent just how much they are worth to society. As their journey pushes forward, I enjoyed how the story made me realized the emotional turmoil the girls were facing, their own lives were at stake plus the bonds they had made with others. The poster for Girl, although she is not a slave, there is this desire to bring her in but why and what will become of her? This shift from the need to pursue Zenobia to now finding Girl, these girls both have bounties on their heads and it put an edge on the search. Can they possibility stay together or will they make it to the Promise Land?
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
February 8, 2016
Beaten, starved, downtrodden and unnamed 12 year old "Girl" is given the name "Lark" finally by Zenobia, the runaway black slave girl who joins Lark in her attempt to flee her abusive Pa. The tale of budding friendship pushing beyond the boundaries of race could still make this a worthwhile read; as well as the open-ended finish which lacks in satisfying conclusion but could bring on some interesting discussions on "what do YOU think happened next?"
**Spoilers**This wasn't great. The voice of the narrator was written in what may be authentic old south poor English but might be a deterrent to young readers despite the small glossary at the back. Each chapter begins with a rather odd old superstition that the author attempts to weave into the following chapter in some way. The book would have benefited GREATLY by allowing readers to swap narrators between Lark and Zenobia. Hearing things only from the head of Lark means we really missed out a LOT on the development of any other characters. It was also rather repetitive: run, hide, run, hide, Lark makes stupid error, run, make prayer to dead mother or grandfather, hide...repeat...
I'd recommend this to kids looking for a slightly tough read (for the "authentic" voice/accent of the narrator) or looking for an American historical fiction tale of friendship across the lines of race.
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review. No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
**Spoilers**This wasn't great. The voice of the narrator was written in what may be authentic old south poor English but might be a deterrent to young readers despite the small glossary at the back. Each chapter begins with a rather odd old superstition that the author attempts to weave into the following chapter in some way. The book would have benefited GREATLY by allowing readers to swap narrators between Lark and Zenobia. Hearing things only from the head of Lark means we really missed out a LOT on the development of any other characters. It was also rather repetitive: run, hide, run, hide, Lark makes stupid error, run, make prayer to dead mother or grandfather, hide...repeat...
I'd recommend this to kids looking for a slightly tough read (for the "authentic" voice/accent of the narrator) or looking for an American historical fiction tale of friendship across the lines of race.
FTC Disclosure: The Publisher provided me with a copy of this book to provide an honest review. No goody bags, sponsorship, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
December 31, 2014
Having lived for 12 years without a name after her mother died in childbirth, “Girl” has never experienced anything but hatred and disdain from her father and brothers. When runaway slave Zenobia shows up, “Girl” hides her in their cellar, and realizes that if Zenobia can get away, she can, too. On the run from her family as well as from a variety of slave catchers, “Girl” is re-named “Lark” by Zenobia and the two experience all sorts of trials and tribulations as they attempt to make it to the Quaker settlement of Waterford. Along the way, they add another runaway slave, Brightwell, to their group, and Lark learns that family is sometimes created in the unlikeliest of places.
Written in 1800s Virginia dialect, the story was hard to get into for the first couple of pages. I was afraid that the dialect would cause me to stumble as I was reading, but it soon grew on me. What I found most intriguing were the superstitious folkore expressions that began each chapter and were somehow incorporated into the storyline contained therein. I also found it remarkable that each chapter ended in a bit of a cliff-hanger, making me want to continue reading to find out what happened to our plucky heroines. The story, while not entirely new and unique, was given a twist by adding a white girl into the Underground Railroad adventure, pointing out that slavery does, indeed, manifest itself in different ways.
Highly recommended for grades 5-10.
Written in 1800s Virginia dialect, the story was hard to get into for the first couple of pages. I was afraid that the dialect would cause me to stumble as I was reading, but it soon grew on me. What I found most intriguing were the superstitious folkore expressions that began each chapter and were somehow incorporated into the storyline contained therein. I also found it remarkable that each chapter ended in a bit of a cliff-hanger, making me want to continue reading to find out what happened to our plucky heroines. The story, while not entirely new and unique, was given a twist by adding a white girl into the Underground Railroad adventure, pointing out that slavery does, indeed, manifest itself in different ways.
Highly recommended for grades 5-10.
May 12, 2014
In Running Out of Night, Lovejoy weaves an exciting and historically accurate story with good messages about friendship, family, and acceptance. The book, scheduled to be released in November, will be a perfect read for those from 4th to 6th grade who enjoy historical fiction and strong female leads (although this book isn't just for girls!). The book is a great choice for any teachers wanting to show their students more about the history of the underground railroad, slavery, and life in the 1850s. There is some intense imagery, so this book, although the language is not a difficult read, should not be given to sensitive students. It's also written in a southern dialect which could be difficult for younger readers, but also makes it a great introductory book to higher-lever books written in dialects (Their Eyes Were Watching God, anyone?). Each chapter, too, begins with a short proverb, which gives the book it's originality and old-timey appeal. The book didn't get five stars from me simply because I felt that the story was a bit roundabout, with Lark and Zenobia getting captured, and then running away, and then captured again. However, the historical accuracy and strong themes of friendship, personal strength, and family that Running Out of Night portrays should make it a staple on any 5th graders shelf this coming fall.
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