Belle

Please turn this into a t.v. movie! If BET had any sense this is the kind of work they would produce. Maybe tv one will secure the rights or better... Oprah.

Belle has lived all her sixteen years in slavery. As a young girl she lost her mother, who was sold away. Her father has decided that he wants a better life for himself and his daughter, so they flee Kentucky, hoping to reach freedom in Canada. But the two are separated, and Belle finds herself lost and alone in Michigan. She is found by the side of the road by Daniel and Josephine Best, the children of free black parents who operate a station on the Underground Railroad. Belle finds herself taken in by the Bests, being treated like a member of the family. But while enjoying her newfound freedom, she also longs for news of her father. And though she doesn't mean to, Belle finds herself falling in love with Daniel, even though he is already engaged to another. Can they ever be together, and will Belle ever find her father again? I highly recommend this book to teenage girls who enjoy historical romances, as well as older readers who enjoy a sweet love story. The romance is very cute and sweet, and the historical setting isn't extremely detailed, but creates an interesting background for the story while teaching a few historical facts. I read this book as part of the Avon True Romance series, when it was first published, and I was pleased to see it has been re-released, so more readers can enjoy it.

In today's society of reckless abandon regarding morals, this novel is a refreshing change of view. You have the innocence that children and teen should have towards life set during the years of slavery. You have family values where both parents are committed to their marriage and their children with the same passion and conviction. You have the village raising the children. Although you read about love and passion, you don't have the "in-your-face" sexuality of today's standards. I applaud Mrs. Jenkins and her portrayal of a united African-American family during slavery.

This story was perhaps the best of the series yet. Mrs. Jenkins gives you facts about slavery and what happens when people work together to help each other.Belle, is the runaway, she is led to shelter by Daniel Best. Over time Belle learns how people in the north try to end slavery. She also comes to admitt her true feelings for Daniel and learns to read and operate her own business.Daniel, finds Belle and takes her to his home to meet his mother. Daniel is in a delicate situation, he has an intended but is drawn to Belle. As the story progresses, he learns what true love is all about.

Belle has lived all her sixteen years in slavery. As a young girl she lost her mother, who was sold away. Her father has decided that he wants a better life for himself and his daughter, so they flee Kentucky, hoping to reach freedom in Canada. But the two are separated, and Belle finds herself lost and alone in Michigan. She is found by the side of the road by Daniel and Josephine Best, the children of free black parents who operate a station on the Underground Railroad. Belle finds herself taken in by the Bests, being treated like a member of the family. But while enjoying her newfound freedom, she also longs for news of her father. And though she doesn't mean to, Belle finds herself falling in love with Daniel, even though he is already engaged to another. Can they ever be together, and will Belle ever find her father again? I highly recommend this book to teenage girls who enjoy historical romances.