3.93
"Elijah of Buxton" by Christopher Paul Curtis is a heartwarming and enlightening middle-grade novel that explores the life of a young boy growing up in a settlement of runaway slaves in Canada. The story is set in the 1860s and follows the life of Elijah, who is the first free-born child in Buxton, a community of former slaves who have escaped to Canada via the Underground Railroad. Elijah is an endearing and curious character who is struggling to come to terms with his identity and the weight of his heritage. He is often teased by his friends for being different, and his sense of otherness is heightened when he is chosen to be the representative of Buxton in a competition to raise funds for a new schoolhouse. Elijah's journey takes him to the United States, where he encounters racism, poverty, and the harsh realities of slavery. Curtis's writing is rich and evocative, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and smells of Buxton and the surrounding countryside. The author's use of humor and dialogue adds depth and authenticity to the characters, making them relatable and endearing to young readers. The novel also touches on important themes such as identity, community, and social justice, making it a valuable addition to any middle-grade library. "Elijah of Buxton" is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that will captivate and engage young readers. It is a powerful reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the past and a call to action for a better future. This book is highly recommended for anyone looking for a compelling and educational read that will leave a lasting impression...
Christopher Paul Curtis
Bud, Not Buddy
After his mother's death, 10-year-old Bud, a motherless boy living in Flint, Michigan, during the Great Depression, embarks on a journey to find his father. Fans of 'Elijah of Buxton' will enjoy this heartwarming story with its rich historical context and engaging narrative.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Set in the 1930s Deep South, this novel follows the Logan family as they fight for their land and dignity amid racial tension. Like 'Elijah of Buxton,' it offers a powerful exploration of the African-American experience during a challenging historical period.
Learn MoreMildred D. Taylor
The Land
This prequel to 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' tells the story of Paul-Edward and his grandparents, who were former slaves, as they struggle to establish a farm in Mississippi after the Civil War. Like 'Elijah of Buxton,' it provides a powerful exploration of the African-American experience.
Learn MoreLouise Erdrich
The Birchbark House
This novel, the first in the Birchbark series, introduces Omakayas, a young Ojibwe girl, and her family as they navigate life in the late 1800s. Readers of 'Elijah of Buxton' will enjoy this immersive historical fiction with a focus on a different cultural experience.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
In a seemingly perfect society, 12-year-old Jonas is selected as the Receiver of Memory and begins to uncover the truth about his world. Fans of 'Elijah of Buxton' will appreciate this thought-provoking dystopian novel with its richly developed setting.
Learn MoreKwame Alexander
The Crossover
Told in verse, this novel follows Josh and Jordan, two talented basketball-playing brothers, as they navigate their teenage years. Readers of 'Elijah of Buxton' will enjoy this unique narrative style and the coming-of-age themes.
Learn MoreJacqueline Woodson
Brown Girl Dreaming
In this memoir in verse, Woodson recounts her childhood, split between South Carolina and New York, during the turbulent 1960s. Readers of 'Elijah of Buxton' will appreciate the historical context and the poetic storytelling.
Learn MoreStephen Chbosky
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
This epistolary novel follows Charlie, a socially awkward teenager, as he navigates the challenges of high school and finds solace in literature, music, and friendship. Fans of 'Elijah of Buxton' will enjoy this poignant coming-of-age story.
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