65 pages • 2 hours read
Never Caught: The Washingtons’ Relentless Pursuit of Their Runaway Slave
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Book Brief
272
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 18th Century
2017
Adult
14-18 years
1090L
Super Short Summary
In Never Caught by Erica Armstrong Dunbar, the narrative follows Ona Judge, an enslaved woman, moving from life at Mount Vernon to eventual self-liberation in New Hampshire. Under George and Martha Washington, Judge grapples with intense challenges and ultimately escapes, navigating life as a fugitive while under constant threat of recapture. The story includes themes of enslavement and the struggles for freedom in early America.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
12,149 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Erica Armstrong Dunbar’s Never Caught offers a compelling, meticulously researched narrative of Ona Judge’s escape from George Washington’s household. Reviewers praise its vivid storytelling and historical significance. Some note a slower pace in certain sections, but overall, it’s lauded for shedding light on a crucial part of American history often overlooked.
Who Should Read Never Caught?
Readers who enjoy books like The Hemingses of Monticello by Annette Gordon-Reed or Barracoon by Zora Neale Hurston will be captivated by Never Caught. The compelling narrative of Ona Judge's escape from George Washington's servitude appeals to those interested in American history, slavery, and courageous acts of resistance.
12,149 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ona Judge
Ona Judge
A historical figure who was enslaved by George and Martha Washington; she courageously escapes and spends her life evading capture as a runaway slave.
George Washington
George Washington
The first president of the United States and slave owner; he is depicted as struggling with the institution of slavery, showing complex attitudes toward his enslaved people.
Martha Washington
Martha Washington
The wife of George Washington, portrayed as having strong pro-slavery sentiments and no inclination to question the morality of owning slaves.
Senator Robert Langdon
Senator Robert Langdon
A political ally of George Washington from Portsmouth who represents Northern attitudes gradually shifting from supporting slavery to opposing it.
Joseph Whipple
Joseph Whipple
A federal official in Portsmouth who similarly reflects the evolving Northern perspective on slavery and aids Ona Judge in her quest for freedom.
272
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 18th Century
2017
Adult
14-18 years
1090L
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