Copper Sun — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
In this “searing work of historical fiction” (Booklist), Coretta Scott King Award-winning author Sharon M. Draper tells the epic story of a young girl torn from her African village, sold into slavery, and stripped of everything she has ever known—except hope.
Amari's life was once perfect. Engaged to the handsomest man in her tribe, adored by her family, and fortunate enough to live in a beautiful village, it never occurred to her that it could all be taken away in an instant. But that was what happened when her village was invaded by slave traders. Her family was brutally murdered as she was dragged away to a slave ship and sent to be sold in the Carolinas. There she was bought by a plantation owner and given to his son as a "birthday present".
Now, survival is all Amari can dream about. As she struggles to hold on to her memories, she also begins to learn English and make friends with a white indentured servant named Molly. When an opportunity to escape presents itself, Amari and Molly seize it, fleeing South to the Spanish colony in Florida at Fort Mose. Along the way, their strength is tested like never before as they struggle against hunger, cold, wild animals, hurricanes, and people eager to turn them in for reward money. The hope of a new life is all that keeps them going, but Florida feels so far away and sometimes Amari wonders how far hopes and dreams can really take her.
Frequently asked questions
Is Copper Sun appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book depicts the harsh realities of slavery, including violence, rape, death, and murder. It presents a raw and well-researched story about a young enslaved girl, Amari, who experiences severe physical and emotional abuse. The book contains genuinely frightening content related to the horrors of slavery, including the traumatic experiences of being captured, beaten, and dehumanized. These elements are likely to cause distress for readers.
Does Copper Sun have violence?
The book depicts the harsh realities of slavery, including violence, rape, death, and murder. It presents a raw and well-researched story about a young enslaved girl, Amari, who experiences severe physical and emotional abuse.
Does Copper Sun have scary content?
The book contains genuinely frightening content related to the horrors of slavery, including the traumatic experiences of being captured, beaten, and dehumanized. These elements are likely to cause distress for readers.
Does Copper Sun have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. While some sources mention the book's availability on Christian sites, there are no explicit religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies in the narrative.
Does Copper Sun have racial/cultural content?
The narrative centers on the experiences of a young African girl sold into slavery, addressing themes of racial discrimination and the historical context of slavery in America. It highlights the dehumanization faced by Black individuals.
Does Copper Sun have profanity?
No profanity is mentioned in the book. The focus is on the narrative surrounding slavery and its impacts rather than on the use of strong language.
Does Copper Sun have climate change?
No climate themes are present in the book. The search results include unrelated climate change discussions and resources that do not pertain to the narrative of 'Copper Sun'.
Does Copper Sun have sexual identity?
The book addresses themes of sexual assault and the sexual exploitation of enslaved women. It includes explicit references to the sexual duties imposed on Amari, highlighting the brutal realities of her situation.
Does Copper Sun have gender roles?
The book critiques traditional gender roles, particularly how Black women are dehumanized and treated as disposable in the context of slavery. It highlights the intersection of race and gender in the experiences of the characters.
Does Copper Sun have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters are mentioned in the book 'Copper Sun' by Sharon M. Draper. The search results primarily focus on unrelated LGBTQ+ resources and other books.
