A review by alexisdpatt
Forge, by Laurie Halse Anderson

adventurous challenging medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

“Forge” by Laurie Halse Anderson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Forge” is the second novel in the Seeds of America trilogy. Unlike “Chains,” “Forge” is told from the perspective of Curzon, a slave boy that Isabel befriended during her time in New York. 

“Forge” mostly covers the the time frame and conditions during the 1778 Valley Forge winter encampment. Because this is middle grade, there is a lot left to be desired when it comes to the absolute brutality of Valley Forge. Although malnutrition and exposure to the elements are discussed, the horrors of disease, especially smallpox, is missing. This is kind of a let down given the disturbing depiction of the POW prison in “Chains.” 

Since this novel is told from the perspective of Curzon, I would argue that it can actually stand on its own outside of the larger narrative. You do get the feeling of being a bit left out from Isabel’s story—though I suspect the reasoning behind that might be more adult than middle grade from the subtext.  

All that’s left is to read “Ashes” and give my thought on the series as a whole.