Freewater — Content Guide for Parents
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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
Winner of the Coretta Scott King Author Award
An Indiebound Bestseller
A New York Times Bestseller
Award-winning author Amina Luqman-Dawson pens a lyrical, accessible historical middle-grade novel about two enslaved children's escape from a plantation and the many ways they find freedom.
Under the cover of night, twelve-year-old Homer flees Southerland Plantation with his little sister Ada, unwillingly leaving their beloved mother behind. Much as he adores her and fears for her life, Homer knows there's no turning back, not with the overseer on their trail. Through tangled vines, secret doorways, and over a sky bridge, the two find a secret community called Freewater, deep in the swamp.
In this society created by formerly enslaved people and some freeborn children, Homer finds new friends, almost forgetting where he came from. But when he learns of a threat that could destroy Freewater, he crafts a plan to find his mother and help his new home.
Deeply inspiring and loosely based on the history of maroon communities in the South, this is a striking tale of survival, adventure, friendship, and courage.
Frequently asked questions
Is Freewater appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book depicts violence and degradation associated with slavery, including mentions of branding and whipping, although it does not engage in excessive graphic detail. The narrative focuses on resistance against oppression. The book includes elements that may be scary for younger readers, such as mentions of physical violence and the harsh realities of slavery, but these are not described in excessive detail.
Does Freewater have violence?
The book depicts violence and degradation associated with slavery, including mentions of branding and whipping, although it does not engage in excessive graphic detail. The narrative focuses on resistance against oppression.
Does Freewater have scary content?
The book includes elements that may be scary for younger readers, such as mentions of physical violence and the harsh realities of slavery, but these are not described in excessive detail.
Does Freewater have religious themes?
No religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies are mentioned in the narrative of 'Freewater.' The book primarily deals with themes of slavery and freedom.
Does Freewater have racial/cultural content?
The narrative centers on the experiences of enslaved children, exploring the brutality of slavery and the quest for freedom. It addresses themes of racial oppression and the historical context of slavery in America.
Does Freewater have profanity?
No profanity is detected in the search results for 'Freewater.' The content is appropriate for its target age group.
Does Freewater have climate change?
No climate themes are present in the narrative of 'Freewater.' The story is centered around the historical context of slavery and freedom rather than environmental issues.
Does Freewater have sexual identity?
No sexual content is mentioned in the search results. The themes focus on freedom, family, and friendship, without inappropriate sexual references.
Does Freewater have gender roles?
No specific gender roles are highlighted in the search results. The focus is on the experiences of the enslaved children rather than traditional or modern gender roles.
Does Freewater have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes detected in the search results for 'Freewater.' The content focuses on the story of enslaved children and their escape to a free community.
