41 pages • 1 hour read
Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge: George and Martha Washington's Courageous Slave Who Dared to Run Away; Young Readers Edition
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Book Brief
Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge
Nonfiction | Biography | Middle Grade | Published in 2019272
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • Late 18th century
2019
Middle grade
9-12 years
1090L
Super Short Summary
Never Caught: The Story of Ona Judge by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve recounts the true story of Ona Judge, an enslaved Black woman who escaped George and Martha Washington's servitude in 1796 and fled to New Hampshire, where she lived free despite multiple attempts by the Washingtons to recapture her. The book explores the struggles of Black enslaved people as the abolition movement begins dividing the new nation. References to slavery, racism, and physical violence are included.
Informative
Inspirational
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
1,965 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Erica Armstrong Dunbar's Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge is lauded for its compelling exploration of Ona Judge's escape from George Washington's household. The biography is praised for its meticulous research and engaging narrative. However, some reviewers feel it occasionally lacks depth in contextual historical analysis. Overall, it is an insightful and powerful read.
Who Should Read Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge?
Readers who gravitate toward historical biographies with a focus on untold narratives, particularly involving marginalized figures in America's past, will find Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge compelling. Fans of The Hemingses of Monticello by Annette Gordon-Reed and Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly will appreciate its detailed examination of Ona Judge's life and her courageous escape from enslavement under George Washington.
1,965 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
George Washington
George Washington
The first president of the United States, known for his leadership and military prowess. He grapples with the ethical implications of slavery while personally pursuing Ona to prevent her escape.
Martha Washington
Martha Washington
Wife of George Washington, who leads a life of privilege despite personal hardships. She values Ona’s calming influence and adheres to the institution of slavery.
272
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • Late 18th century
2019
Middle grade
9-12 years
1090L
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