44 pages • 1 hour read
Forge
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Valley Forge, Pennsylvania • 1770s
2010
YA
10-14 years
820L
Super Short Summary
In Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson, Curzon, a runaway slave and soldier, navigates life at Valley Forge during the American Revolution. Struggling with harsh conditions, bigotry, and personal betrayals, he reunites with Isabel, another fugitive from slavery, and together they plot their escape. The story underscores the resilience and determination of individuals yearning for freedom amidst war. The book contains references to racism, violence, and slavery.
Challenging
Gritty
Emotional
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
18,286 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Laurie Halse Anderson's Forge is heralded for its vivid depiction of the Revolutionary War through young protagonist Curzon's eyes. Reviewers praise its historical accuracy, compelling narrative, and emotional depth. Criticisms include a slow beginning and occasional predictability. Overall, it's a strong sequel that deepens readers' understanding of early American history.
Who Should Read Forge?
Readers who enjoy Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson are typically captivated by historical fiction and strong character development. Similar to those who appreciate Chains by Anderson or My Brother Sam Is Dead by James Lincoln Collier, they seek gripping narratives set during the American Revolution, exploring themes of struggle, freedom, and resilience.
18,286 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Isabel
Isabel
A young runaway slave with a distinctive mark on her cheek, known for her fierce determination and pivotal role in Curzon's life.
Eben
Eben
A talkative and idealistic young soldier who befriends Curzon and faces his own challenges while maintaining his enthusiasm for revolutionary ideals.
Bellingham
Bellingham
The former owner’s son of Curzon, who becomes entwined in the war's hardships and harbors ambitions of power despite his involvement in slavery.
320
Novel • Fiction
Valley Forge, Pennsylvania • 1770s
2010
YA
10-14 years
820L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.