83 pages • 2 hours read
Chains
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Book Brief
316
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1770s
2008
Middle grade
10-14 years
780L
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.
Challenging
Emotional
Inspirational
Dark
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
60,271 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
60,271 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Curzon
Curzon
A young, kind-hearted friend and ally to Isabel, recognizable by his distinctive red cap, who has complex views about the rebellion and ultimately seeks his own promise of freedom.
Ruth Finch
Ruth Finch
Isabel’s younger sister who remains a central figure in Isabel’s thoughts and motivations, despite being physically absent from much of the narrative.
Anne Lockton (Madam)
Anne Lockton (Madam)
The cruel and vindictive lawful owner of Isabel and Ruth, who embodies the oppressive and dehumanizing system of slavery.
Lady Seymour
Lady Seymour
A wealthy woman who shows kindness to Isabel but struggles with the moral implications of slavery while offering limited aid.
316
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1770s
2008
Middle grade
10-14 years
780L
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