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Book Summary and Reviews of Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

Chains

by Laurie Halse Anderson

  • Critics' Consensus (0):
  • Readers' Rating (15):
  • Published:
  • Oct 2008, 320 pages
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About this book

Book Summary

If an entire nation could seek its freedom, why not a girl?

As the Revolutionary War begins, thirteen-year-old Isabel wages her own fight...for freedom. Promised freedom upon the death of their owner, she and her sister, Ruth, in a cruel twist of fate become the property of a malicious New York City couple, the Locktons, who have no sympathy for the American Revolution and even less for Ruth and Isabel. When Isabel meets Curzon, a slave with ties to the Patriots, he encourages her to spy on her owners, who know details of British plans for invasion. She is reluctant at first, but when the unthinkable happens to Ruth, Isabel realizes her loyalty is available to the bidder who can provide her with freedom.

From acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson comes this compelling, impeccably researched novel that shows the lengths we can go to cast off our chains, both physical and spiritual.

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Reviews

Media Reviews

"Starred Review. Pursuing similar themes as M.T. Anderson's Octavian Nothing, this gripping novel offers readers a startlingly provocative view of the Revolutionary War." - Publishers Weekly.

"Starred Review. While waiting, they can enjoy M.T. Anderson's The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation: Volume II, The Kingdom on the Waves, another superb take on the subject." - Kirkus Reviews.

This information about Chains was first featured in "The BookBrowse Review" - BookBrowse's membership magazine, and in our weekly "Publishing This Week" newsletter. Publication information is for the USA, and (unless stated otherwise) represents the first print edition. The reviews are necessarily limited to those that were available to us ahead of publication. If you are the publisher or author and feel that they do not properly reflect the range of media opinion now available, send us a message with the mainstream reviews that you would like to see added.

Any "Author Information" displayed below reflects the author's biography at the time this particular book was published.

Reader Reviews

Write your own reviewwrite your own review

Another Bookworm

One of those books that force you to re-evaluate your life
Laurie Halse Anderson did an outstanding job on this novel. Her simple yet insightful style of writing is so original; I have never seen anything like it. 'Chains' has all the elements of a worthwhile story, this coming from an ardent reader who is experienced in judging books. A gripping plot, interesting characters, and subtle morals weaved between the lines; you'll find them from the first page. For those who are questioning whether or not to read 'Chains', I assure you of my recommendation.

Sydney

love it
I really like this book. I think it's one of my faves now. I even got to meet the author! I had to read this book for the English Festival and it was soooo good! The twist she put this story opposed to other stories about slavery was unique. I recommend you read this, and ignore the people who hate it. Unless you really don't like historical fiction, listen to them, but in my opinion it's only boring at the beginning but there is a lot of interesting parts to make up for it.

alexandria evans

chains review
This book was amazing. I was hooked when I read the first paragraph! This book really helped me understand the revolutionary war better, and entertained me as well.

Pzreich

Chains review
I think that this book deserves 11 points out of 10. Though i am not a historical fiction, Chains really stands out to me. i can relate to most characters, especially Isabella. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend. Thank you for this book, Laurie Halse Anderson!

Bookwriter

Fabulous!
I have no idea what you other bozos are talking about. This is the best most inspiring book ever... You guys lost your mind :P Get a Life

Bookworrms

gooood
This is a great book and taught me a lot about myself and people around that time period. It is unlike most historical fiction books which put me to sleep! I finished it in a day because I couldn't put it down. Please read this book, you will become Isabel as you do.

...9 more reader reviews

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Author Information

Laurie Halse Anderson Author Biography

Laurie Halse Anderson is the New York Times-bestselling author who writes for kids of all ages. Known for tackling tough subjects with humor and sensitivity, her work has earned numerous international, national, and state awards. She has been nominated three times for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. Two of her books, Speak and Chains, were National Book Award finalists, and Chains was also short-listed for the Carnegie medal.

Link to Laurie Halse Anderson's Website

Name Pronunciation
Laurie Halse Anderson: Halse rhymes with waltz

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