Author: Yusef Komunyakaa

Publisher: Rattapallax

Published: 2022-11-09

Total Pages: 21

ISBN-13: 189249468X

Jupiter continues his perilous journey to Philadelphia using the Underground Railroad while being pursued by slave catchers. There he is recruited by free Black abolitionist and conductor William Still to transport a recently escaped family to Canada. Jupiter becomes the "Midnight Rider" into American history. Jupiter is a horse-breaker and coach driver, and was born into slavery. During a freak electrical storm, he is struck by lighting which gives him the power of immortality, and makes his scars translucent. Jupiter escapes to the North and finds the abolitionist and former enslaved person, Harriet Tubman. Together, they plot to smuggle run-away slaves through the underground railroad. Jupiter continually puts his life on the line to help others knowing he cannot be killed. Eventually, Jupiter outlives everyone and experiences dramatic changes in America from the Civil War to modern times. Can Jupiter use his powers and wisdom to change the course of history to rectify racial injustice and inequality?