TL;DR
Copper Sun is a poignant historical novel that follows Amari, a young African girl, as she navigates the brutal realities of slavery and her quest for freedom alongside her friend Polly.
What is Copper Sun about
Copper Sun, written by Sharon M. Draper, tells the harrowing story of Amari, a fifteen-year-old girl whose life is shattered when slave traders invade her village in Africa, killing her family and forcing her into the brutal world of slavery. Transported to America, Amari becomes a gift for a plantation owner's son. Despite the overwhelming despair, she clings to hope. The narrative explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the indomitable human spirit as Amari, along with a fellow slave named Polly, takes a perilous journey to escape and seek refuge in the Spanish colony of Fort Mose, Florida. The novel, while fictional, mirrors the grim realities of the slave trade and human suffering during that dark period.
Copper Sun 7 Key Takeaways
The Tragic Invasion
Amari's idyllic life is violently disrupted as slave traders invade her village, killing her family. This moment signifies her loss of innocence and the beginning of her harrowing journey.
Journey to America
After being captured, Amari is transported on a slave ship to America, where she experiences the horrors of the Middle Passage, a traumatic event that lays the groundwork for her struggles.
Enslavement on a Plantation
Upon arrival, Amari is sold to a plantation owner and given to his son as a birthday gift, enduring the brutal conditions of slavery and the dehumanization that comes with it.
A Friendship Forms
Amari forms a bond with Polly, a white indentured servant, which defies societal norms and highlights the power of friendship amidst oppression.
The Cruelty that Sparks Hope
An act of cruelty against Amari provides her with a chance to escape, igniting her determination to pursue freedom despite the dangers that lie ahead.
The Escape
Amari and Polly embark on a treacherous journey to Fort Mose, facing numerous challenges that test their resolve and deepen their bond as they seek sanctuary.
Search for Freedom
The narrative culminates in their quest for freedom, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity as they navigate the harsh realities of their escape.
Top Copper Sun Quotes
- Hope is the thing that will carry you through the darkest of times.
- In the face of despair, we find our strength and our will to fight for freedom.
Who should read Copper Sun?
Copper Sun is ideal for young adults and readers interested in historical fiction. It provides a profound exploration of slavery's brutal realities while emphasizing themes of resilience and friendship, inspiring readers to reflect on their own values and the importance of freedom.
Copper Sun Best Reviews
- Kirkus Reviews praises Copper Sun for its raw honesty, stating it "brilliantly captures the pain and resilience of those who endured slavery, making it a must-read for young adults."
- Publishers Weekly highlights Draper's ability to create multidimensional characters, noting that "Amari's journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring, making readers reflect on the past and the fight for freedom today."
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Copper Sun FAQs
Is Copper Sun based on a true story?
While the story of Amari is fictional, it is rooted in the real and horrifying history of the slave trade, reflecting the experiences of countless individuals who suffered under its brutality.
What age is appropriate for reading Copper Sun?
Copper Sun is recommended for readers aged 13 and up, as it addresses mature themes related to slavery and human rights, offering educational value while also challenging young readers to think critically about history.