My Name is Phillis Wheatley: A Story of Slavery and Freedom

Cooper, Afua, My Name is Phillis Wheatley: A Story of Slavery and Freedom. Kids Can Press, 2009. Pgs. 152. Language: G, Sexual Content: G, Violence: PG

From her early life in West Africa to the day she was freed when her master, John Wheatley died, this book creates a fictionalized account of Phillis Wheatley’s life. As a child, her tribe trained her to be a griot, a storyteller. When slave traders kidnapped her and dragged her halfway across the world to America, the Wheatley family buys her and nurses her back to health. When they discover her amazing ability to learn, they teach her to read and write.  Her education from her owners and her exposure to the American Revolution help her to become one of the best poets in history.

An accurate account of Phillis’ life, although fictionalized. The background information is well-researched, the characters are true to their natures, and the story is heartwarming. Readers who like historical fiction and biographies will enjoy this book. EL (4-6). ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, HUN Public Library.