Chains

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.

Praise for Chains

“Anderson explores elemental themes of power, freedom, and the sources of human strength in this searing, fascinating story.”

Booklist, starred review of Chains

Readers will care deeply about Isabel . . .”

Kirkus Reviews, starred review of Chains

“Startlingly provocative . . . nuanced and evenhanded . . . a fast-moving, emotionally involving plot.”

Publishers Weekly, starred review of Chains

“Engrossing. . . a heart-racing story.”

Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books on Chains

Knocks on the conscience of a nation.

Christian Science Monitor on Chains

Awards for Chains

ALA Best Books For Young Adults
ALA Notable Children's Books
ALA Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults - Top Ten
Beehive Award Master List (UT)
Booklist Editors' Choice
CBC/NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book
Capitol Choices List (DC)
Charlotte Award Suggested Reading List (NY)
Garden State Teen Book Award Nominee (NJ)
Georgia Children's Book Award Nominee
Golden Sower Masterlist (NE)
Grand Canyon Reader Award Nominee (AZ)
IRA Teachers' Choices
Maine Student Book Award Master List
NYPL 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
National Book Award Finalist
Nutmeg Children's Book Award Nominee (CT)
Pacific Northwest Young Reader's Choice Award
Pacific Northwest Young Reader's Choice Award Master List
Parents' Choice Gold Award Winner
Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award Nominee
Publishers Weekly Best Books
Rebecca Caudill Award Master List (IL)
Rhode Island Teen Book Award Nominee
Rodda Book Award Nominee
Scott O'Dell Award
Texas Tayshas Reading List
Thumbs Up! Award Master List (MI)
Truman Reader Award Nominee (MO)
Volunteer State Book Award Master List (TN)
Washington Post Best Books
West Virginia Children's Book Award Master List