Copper Sun by Sharon Draper
Amari is a 15 year old girl from the Ashanti tribe in Africa. One morning her tribe is viciously attacked by slave traders. Her family is murdered and she is taken away to enter the world of slavery. She is bought by a wealthy land owner as a gift for his 16 year son’s birthday. Amari is assigned to Polly, an indentured white girl, for looking after. Gradually Amari learns to read and speak English. When the plantation owner’s wife gives birth to a black child, Amari and Polly do everything they can to try to cover it up for her. Her husband finds out and they are severely punished. Amari is to be sold to a brothel. On her way to be sold, she and Polly escape. They must travel a great distance to reach Fort Mose a safe haven for runaway slaves. A reward is posted for their capture. Against all odds they never lose hope. This touching story takes us into the reality of slavery and how hope and determination can help you overcome any obstacles.
