Freewater
by Amina Luqman-Dawson
Flap Copy Description:
Under the cover of night, twelve-year-old Homer flees Southerland Plantation with his younger sister, unwillingly leaving their mother behind. Through tangles vines, hidden doorways, and over a sky bridge, the two find a secret community called Freewater, deep in the swamp.
In this secret society created by formerly enslaved people and some freeborn children, Homer finds new friends, almost forgetting where he came from. But when he learns of a threat that could destroy Freewater, he crafts a plan to return to Southerland Plantation, free his mother from enslavement, and help his new home.
My Thoughts:
When I recently read Freewater, I was aware I was reading a children's classic in the making. Based on a little-known chapter in American history, this middle grade novel shines a light on the men, women, and children who dared have a life of freedom in the wilderness, rather than to remain enslaved. Ms. Luqman-Dawson is a master storyteller; her thrilling novel is brilliantly told. Freewater recently won both the Newbery Medal Award, as well as the Coretta Scott King award. Brava, Amina Luqmon-Dawson!
Click here to learn about the author, Amina Luqmon-Dawson.
