Super Short Summary

Wolf by the Ears by Ann Rinaldi follows Harriet Hemmings, a fair-skinned enslaved girl at Monticello, who learns she might be Thomas Jefferson's daughter. As she becomes aware of her possible freedom at twenty-one, she confronts the harsh realities of racial passing and systemic inequality. Assisted by Jefferson and his extended family, Harriet must navigate complex social dynamics and decide whether to embrace her African heritage or pass as white for a chance at freedom. Themes of racism, slavery, and identity are explored. The book features scenes of attempted sexual assault.