Description

An exciting novel for tweens that captures the dawn of the American Revolution.

Life is tough for thirteen-year-old Nathaniel Dunn, an indentured servant in colonial Virginia. Then in a twist of luck, he meets Basil, a kind schoolmaster, and an arrangement is struck lending Nathaniel's labor to a Williamsburg carriage maker. Basil introduces Nathaniel to music, books, and philosophies that open his mind to new attitudes about equality.

The year is 1775, and as colonists voice their rage over England's taxation, Patrick Henry's words "give me liberty, or give me death" become the sounding call for action. Should Nathaniel and Basil join the fight? What is the meaning of "liberty" in a country reliant on indentured servants and slaves? Nathaniel must face the puzzling choices a dawning nation lays before him.

“Filled with action, well-drawn characters, and a sympathetic understanding of many points of view.” —ALA Booklist

About the Author

L. M. Elliott is the New York Times bestselling author of Da Vinci’s Tiger; Under a War-Torn Sky; A Troubled Peace; Across a War-Tossed Sea; Annie, Between the States; Give Me Liberty; Flying South; and Hamilton and Peggy! She lives in Virginia with her family. You can visit her online at lmelliott.com.

Praise For…

“A lively account of the times with a likable narrator and solid action.” — Kirkus Reviews

“A rich and robust piece of historical literature.” — School Library Journal

“Nathaniel and Basil come alive, making this a solid piece of historical fiction.” — KLIATT

“Filled with action, well-drawn characters, and a sympathetic understanding of many points of view.” — ALA Booklist

“Elliott’s vivid descriptions and in-depth research make it easy to envision revolutionary-era Williamsburg.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

“Elliott successfully evokes the spirit of the times.” — KLIATT