Chains

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anderson, L. H. Chains. Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, 2009.

ISBN 978-1416905851

2. Evaluation

This book is impeccably researched in a way that not only convinced me I was getting "the real deal" as far as the historical details are concerned but also transported me straight back into the 18th century. Some historical novels that have tackled this issue in the past have made it overly simple, but CHAINS is different. The historical context isn't simplified, the Patriot cause isn't glorified, and the characters are flawed, complex, and rich. As a reader and as a teacher, I am in serious book-love. Chains is a well-researched look at choices made by individuals during the Revolution, a coming-of-age story for a girl and a nation, and an absolute page-turner. It's everything that historical fiction ought to be.

The main character, Isabel, is a thirteen year old slave who’s future hangs in the balance during the Revolutionary War. Believing that she would gain freedom from her previous owners upon their death, she and her sister anxiously awaited the reading of the will after the funeral. Sadly for the girls, their freedom was not to be given. The girls are sold to a wealthy couple in New York, where Isabel’s story and battle for freedom begin.

Anderson creates a very strong willed, intelligent, and independent heroine in Isabel, one that I believe many students can identify with. She also paints such a vivid picture of life and weaves in so many “teachable” moments. She does an amazing job of creating a story about slavery that is taught in such a different way that it becomes fresh.

3. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

“The characters are well developed, and the situations are realistic. An author's note gives insight into issues surrounding the Revolutionary War and the fight for the nation's freedom even though 20 percent of its people were in chains.” – Library School Journal

“Anderson explores elemental themes of power (“She can do anything. I can do nothing,” Isabel realizes about her sadistic owner), freedom, and the sources of human strength in this searing, fascinating story. The extensive back matter includes a documented section that addresses many questions about history that readers will want to discuss.” – Starred Review Booklist

Scott O’Dell Award

4. CONNECTIONS

This book would be great as a potential cross curricular project in which an ELAR and Social Studies team may work together to create a literature circle or Cross Content project based on this book. This book provides so many opportunities for discussion that it would make a great asset to any Revolutionary War lesson or ELAR classroom