Anderson, Laurie Halse. Chains. New York City: Simon and Schuster Publishing Division, 2008. 300 pages. (Historic Fiction)Isabel has been draped in chains, tied to chains, and fighting chains all of her life. A slave during the American Revolution, no one seems to have a spare ear to listen to her plead for freedom. But when her little sister is sold, Isabel learns that some things are worth fighting for, and some chains must be broken. As the war rages on, both sides are desperate for help, whether it be spies, nurses, or messengers. And when her future is seriously threatened by her masters, Isabel realizes that she is on no side of the war, but will help whoever can promise her freedom.
This novel is so heartbreaking and shocking is left me breathless and praying for this rebellious and brave girl who was marked a slave by the color of her skin. I love how, in this book, the characters are each so different in what they value. For example, Isabel values freedom and cherishes family; while her master, Madam, values money and enjoys seeing others suffer. The characters in Anderson’s novels always surprise me by the depth they seem to have. Laurie Halse Anderson is a magician when it comes to words and I have no doubt you, too, will be swept away with her enchanting characters and powerful words.
Reviewed By: DancingPenguin96
