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Elijah of Buxton

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Christopher Paul Curtis

Elijah of Buxton

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

341

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Buxton, Canada • 1860s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

980L

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Super Short Summary

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis is set in the 1850s and follows 11-year-old Elijah Freeman, the first freeborn child of Buxton, a Canadian settlement of escaped slaves, as he embarks on a perilous journey into the United States. In his quest, Elijah confronts various challenges, learns significant life lessons, and ultimately strives to bring hope and freedom to others. The book includes themes related to slavery and violence.

Humorous

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Adventurous

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.3

14,735 ratings

72%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis is praised for its vivid depiction of an escaped slave community in Canada and its engaging, humorous protagonist, Elijah. Critics commend the emotional depth and historical accuracy. Some find the pacing slow at times, but the rich storytelling and character development are largely celebrated.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Elijah of Buxton?

Readers who enjoyed Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor or Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis will love Elijah of Buxton. It appeals to middle-grade readers interested in historical fiction, African American history, and coming-of-age stories. Ideal for ages 9-12 with themes of courage and resilience.

4.3

14,735 ratings

72%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

341

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Buxton, Canada • 1860s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

980L

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