Elijah of Buxton
by Christopher Paul Curtis
Set in 1860, this historical novel follows 11-year-old Elijah Freeman, the first child born free in the Canadian settlement of Buxton, a real community founded by formerly enslaved people who escaped via the Underground Railroad. When a family friend is cheated out of money meant to buy his family's freedom, Elijah embarks on a dangerous journey to Michigan to help recover the funds. The story powerfully explores themes of freedom, courage, and the lasting impact of slavery while celebrating the strength and resilience of the African Canadian community in Buxton.
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