53 pages • 1 hour read
Amos Fortune, Free Man
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Book Brief
181
Novel • Fiction
New Hampshire • 18th century
1950
Middle grade
10-14 years
1090L
Super Short Summary
Amos Fortune, Free Man by Elizabeth Yates is a biographical novel about African-born Amos Fortune, who was captured and enslaved in 1725, brought to North America, and ultimately gained his freedom. The story follows his journey from enslavement to becoming a respected and successful tanner, highlighting themes of freedom, family, faith, and perseverance. The book includes depictions of slavery and racist sentiments.
Inspirational
Hopeful
Emotional
Challenging
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
11,452 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Amos Fortune, Free Man by Elizabeth Yates is widely praised for its heartfelt narrative and historical insights. Reviewers commend its portrayal of resilience and the human spirit, making it an inspiring read. However, some critics feel the character development lacks depth and that the pacing is occasionally slow. Overall, it's considered a valuable addition to children's literature.
Who Should Read Amos Fortune, Free Man?
A reader who would enjoy Amos Fortune, Free Man by Elizabeth Yates likely appreciates American historical fiction and stories of resilience and freedom, similar to Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes or Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell. They value rich character development and narratives centered on overcoming adversity.
11,452 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Princess Ath-mun
Princess Ath-mun
Amos Fortune's fictional sister in the novel, Ath-mun is a symbolic presence who represents Fortune's motivation for purchasing the freedom of enslaved women.
Mr. and Mrs. Copeland
Mr. and Mrs. Copeland
The fictional first enslavers of Amos Fortune in Boston, the Copelands are Quakers depicted as benevolent in their intentions to civilize and eventually free Fortune.
Mr. and Mrs. Richardson
Mr. and Mrs. Richardson
Ichabod Richardson is Amos Fortune's historical second enslaver who teaches him the trade of tanning, representing a stern yet supposedly fair taskmaster.
Lily and Lydia
Lily and Lydia
Lily is a fictional character, and Lydia is a historical figure, who become Amos Fortune's first and second wives; both are enslaved women whose freedom Amos purchases through hard work.
Violet and Celyndia Fortune
Violet and Celyndia Fortune
Violet is Amos Fortune’s third wife, and Celyndia is her daughter; together, they represent the family Fortune builds after gaining his freedom and establishing himself in Jaffrey.
The Burdoo Family
The Burdoo Family
A historically real family in Amos Fortune’s community, the Burdoos are depicted as struggling with poverty, with Amos purchasing the freedom of their child, Polly.
Charlie Toothaker
Charlie Toothaker
A young white boy bound as an indentured servant to Amos Fortune when his family faces financial difficulties, representing a reversal of Fortune’s own past as an enslaved person.
181
Novel • Fiction
New Hampshire • 18th century
1950
Middle grade
10-14 years
1090L
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