83 pages 2 hours read

Laurie Halse Anderson

Chains

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2008

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson is a historical fiction novel set in 1770s America, before the Revolutionary War, and follows 13-year-old Isabel, an enslaved Black girl. After the death of her owner, Isabel and her sister Ruth are sold to the Lockton family in New York City. Isabel becomes a spy for the American revolutionaries in exchange for a promise of freedom, facing numerous challenges as she navigates her perilous path to liberty. The novel explores themes of identity, family, and courage amid the backdrop of the American Revolution.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Laurie Halse Anderson's Chains is widely praised for its rich historical detail and compelling storytelling, vividly portraying the struggles of a young enslaved girl during the American Revolution. Critics laud the well-developed characters and emotional depth. Some reviewers, however, felt the pacing lagged in parts. Overall, it is a powerful and educational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Chains?

Readers who enjoy Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson are typically middle school to early high school students intrigued by historical fiction, especially centered on the American Revolution. They would likely enjoy books like Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson and My Brother Sam Is Dead by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier.

RecommendedReading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

780L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Children's Literature

Education

Period

American Revolution

Topics

Race / Racism

Education

Military / War

Themes

Society: Community

Relationships: Family

Values/Ideas: Power & Greed