Chains

Anderson, L. H. (2008). Chains. New York: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.

This book tells the story of Isabel, a slave in the beginning of the American Revolution.  As the story begins, her mother has died, and Isabel and her sister Ruth are sold to a New York couple instead of being freed.  "Madam" mistreats the sisters, renaming Isabel "Sal" and selling Ruth when she finds out Ruth has seizures.  Isabel meets Curzon, who is a Patriot, and he talks her in to spying.  When Isabel gets in trouble, Madam has her branded with an I for insolence, and Isabel gets sick.  Curzon is wounded and imprisoned, and Isabel sneaks food to him.  Finally, Isabel works up the courage to run away after she realizes that Madam is going to sell her.  She sneaks Curzon out of prison, and the novel ends with a cliffhanger. 

I enjoyed this book, especially seeing Isabel grow and gain courage as a young woman.  She grew to mistrust others, but to depend upon herself.