Forge

Blistering winds. Bitter cold. And the hope of a new future. In this compelling sequel to Chains, a National Book Award Finalist and winner of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson shifts perspective from Isabel to Curzon and brings to the page the tale of what it takes for runaway slaves to forge their own paths in a world of obstacles—and in the midst of the American Revolution. The Patriot Army was shaped and strengthened by the desperate circumstances of the Valley Forge winter. This is where Curzon the boy becomes Curzon the young man. In addition to the hardships of soldiering, he lives with the fear of discovery, for he is an escaped slave passing for free. And then there is Isabel, who is also at Valley Forge—against her will. She and Curzon have to sort out the tangled threads of their friendship while figuring out what stands between the two of them and true freedom.

Praise for Forge

“Forge (like Chains) would be an ideal classroom companion to more traditional history book fare, one that readers will likely relish as much for its sensitive storytelling as for its gutsy depictions.”

—Kidsread.com review of Forge

“It is difficult to imagine there will ever be historical fiction about this time in America that is more nuanced or respectful of time and place. . . . Anderson’s Forge is a terrific return not only to the colonial era but to historical accuracy.”

—The New York Times Book Review on Forge

“Not only can this sequel stand alone, for many readers it will be one of the best novels they have ever read.”

—Kirkus Reviews, starred review of Forge

“[Anderson’s] masterful storytelling weaves themes of friendship, politics, love, and liberty into a deeply satisfying tale that will leave readers hungry for the final volume.”

—Publishers Weekly, starred review of Forge

“Anderson seamlessly weaves her fictitious characters into history in a cohesive, well-researched narrative about the Revolutionary War that still focuses foremost on developing characters and their interpersonal relationships.”

—The Horn Book, starred review of Forge

“Anderson’s detailed story creates a cinematic sense of history while raising crucial questions about racism, the ethics of war, and the hypocrisies that underlie our country’s founding definitions of freedom.”

—Booklist review of Forge

Awards for Forge

ALA Best Books For Young Adults
CCBC Choices (Cooperative Children's Book Council)
Horn Book Fanfare
IRA Teachers' Choices
Kirkus Best Children's Book
Volunteer State Book Award Master List (TN)
Young Hoosier Book Award Master List (IN)

Buy Now