Forge

Gr 6—10—Following Isabel and Curzon's escape at the conclusion of Chains (2008), Laurie Halse Anderson's sequel (2010, both Atheneum), set during the American Revolution, begins as 15-year-old freed slave Curzon joins the army. Curzon must find a reliable way to feed and clothe himself while Isabel has run off to find her sister. As a private in the Continental army, he enjoys the soldier's life until his previous master, now working for the army's officers, reclaims him and Curzon becomes a slave again. With mixed feelings, Curzon discovers that Isabel has also been recaptured, and the two runaways are reunited. As their lives become more repugnant and their feelings for each other slowly grow, the pair plots their escape. Anderson masterfully presents moments in history through Curzon's eyes and gives listeners much food for thought. Students will learn about the Battle of Saratoga, wintering in Valley Forge, and more in this well-researched novel. Tim Cain's wonderfully rich voice adds subtle nuances to Curzon's text in this well-paced production. A must-have for libraries that already circulate Chains.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT