Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis is a winner of the Coretta Scott King award and a 2008 Newbery Honor book. This story has a great mix of adventure, danger, and heart. Elijah is an eleven year old boy living in Canada. He was born in Canada after his parents fled from America to escape slavery. Although he's never known what it was like to live like a slave, the adults who surround him all carry the weight of their past. Elijah describes himself as a "fragile" boy. He often runs into the woods hollering if something frightens him. Before the story is over you will learn how Elijah must find his courage in order to help his friends and play his own part in helping someone find freedom.
Christopher Curtis does a great job bringing Elijah and his family to life. As a reader, I really cared about what would happen to Elijah. I found myself frightened for him, and even moved to tears as Elijah struggles to grow up and be brave. If you enjoy historical fiction and adventure, you should check this one out!
Reviewed by Mrs. Castro
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