Overground Railroad (The Young Adult Adaptation): The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America

The history of a travel guide for African Americans that reflected far more than just issues of mobility for its users.

From 1936 to 1966, the Green Book was a successful guide supporting Black people traveling during a time of segregation. Its creator, letter carrier Victor Green, creatively

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developed his publication into a wide-ranging product that stood out from similar guides of the era. As the automobile became ubiquitous, African Americans sought guidance about establishments that would accept their business and where they could be safe. Discriminatory practices were common around the U.S., so Green expanded his coverage to include most of the country. The Green Book also served as a way to promote Black businesses. Following World War II, it highlighted historically Black colleges where returning veterans, denied admission to predominantly White institutions, could use the GI Bill for education. From 1949 to 1957, Green’s Reservation Bureau initiative supported customers with navigating international travel. Taylor has skillfully adapted her acclaimed 2020 adult title for teens into a smooth, readable volume that provides context for the rise of Black travel guides and the societal changes that Green and his wife, Alma, responded to. Her insights into the significance of the Green Book for women are fascinating, as is the compelling look at the costs and benefits of integration for Black Americans. Numerous images greatly enhance the text.

Meticulous research and lively anecdotes combine to provide a powerful volume of social history. (notes, bibliography, image credits, index)

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