hiltzmoore's review against another edition
3.0
I realize this is not truly young adult and actually falls more into juvenile fiction, but this historical fiction didn't delve into much history that isn't already widely known, and the fiction portion was not really compelling enough to drive the novel. It was like the author wanted to discuss the horrors of slavery and the negative aspects of Jefferson's character, but also didn't want to offend anyone or embellish history too much. Probably a 2.5 star for me, but I rounded up because I think perhaps if I was a child reading this, I would have found it more compelling.
leahegood's review against another edition
4.0
William Beverly and James Madison "Maddy" Hemings grow up in Monticello, but they are different from the other slaves. They are Thomas Jefferson's sons. The fact is a secret everyone knows. Beverly aches for his father's attention, but Maddy rarely things of Jefferson as his father, especially after his best friend is sold. How can a man admired for defending liberty hold his own children in bondage?
Very thought provoking.
Very thought provoking.
katreadsalot's review against another edition
5.0
Truly a must-read, this book brings to life historical figures that we don’t hear much about. This book represents the best of what fiction can do - I empathized with a new perspective. I loved the characters.
cedardleland's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
readingmegan_'s review against another edition
emotional
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
rfelt's review against another edition
3.0
It took a bit for me to get really into the book. At first, I didn't love her writing style and wanted to read the actual letters and sources instead, but I later grew to enjoy the book. The ending made me cry. Historical fiction can be tricky for me, especially the more into the study of history I go, because I'd rather read nonfiction historical works, but I did enjoy getting an intimate look into what it would be like to be a slave at Monticello.
kathrynwilliams's review against another edition
4.0
This book is a great example of how historical fiction can make us think and reconsider historical people and events. I would recommend this to anyone, especially teenagers who are studying US history.
sandraagee's review against another edition
4.0
This is a book that works because it's told from a child's perspective. Somehow Bradley manages to have the child characters ask some very hard questions about morality and identity without making the books seem overly didactic. It is a testiment to Bradley's writing that this sort of format actually works - and works very well.
Overall this book is a fascinating study of Jefferson's home at Monticello, his family, and the lives of his slaves. Bradley has clearly done her research and I really enjoyed reading how she imagines that the Hemings/Jefferson children felt about their situation. It's a compelling read, and the ending in particular is incredibly powerful.
Overall this book is a fascinating study of Jefferson's home at Monticello, his family, and the lives of his slaves. Bradley has clearly done her research and I really enjoyed reading how she imagines that the Hemings/Jefferson children felt about their situation. It's a compelling read, and the ending in particular is incredibly powerful.