Freewater

Twelve-year-old Homer and seven-year-old Ada escape from a slave plantation in the U.S. by plunging into the river but are separated from their mother. They are rescued by Suleman who takes them to a swamp community where they are free and make friends. While Homer plans a return to the plantation to rescue his mother and friend, the plantation owner’s daughter learns how poorly enslaved people are treated and begins to rebel. This engaging historical novel is suited to novel studies and literature circles and can be used to support lessons on social injustice, the underground railroad, slavery, freedom, family, and the formation of societies. Social considerations noted; consider the emotional maturity of students as some difficult situations are detailed.