Books about freedom

Set against the backdrop of the American Revolution, Chains tells the gripping story of thirteen-year-old Isabel, a girl fighting for her own liberty while a nation fights for its independence. After being cruelly sold to a malicious Loyalist couple in New York City, Isabel is separated from her sister and forced into a world of espionage. This impeccably researched novel is perfect for children who love historical mysteries and stories of incredible bravery in the face of injustice.

Ideal for readers interested in the American Revolution and African American history, Laurie Halse Anderson delivers a powerful narrative that explores the physical and spiritual meaning of freedom. Isabel's journey from a reluctant spy to a determined survivor makes this a great choice for middle schoolers and young teens looking for a deep, thought-provoking read. It is a compelling look at a side of history often left out of textbooks, making it both educational and emotionally resonant.

Highlights:

• A powerful perspective on the American Revolution through the eyes of an enslaved girl.
• High-stakes historical espionage and suspenseful plot twists.
• Deeply moving themes of sisterhood, resilience, and the quest for freedom.
• Winner of the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction.

Elijah of Buxton is a powerful and moving historical novel by Newbery Medalist Christopher Paul Curtis. Set in the mid-19th century, the story follows eleven-year-old Elijah, the first child born free in the settlement of Buxton, Canada—a haven for formerly enslaved people. While Elijah is famous for his rock-throwing skills, he is often seen as a "fra-gile" boy who is easily spooked. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when a desperate thief steals money intended to buy a family's freedom from the South. Elijah must summon his courage and embark on a dangerous journey into the United States to right this wrong.

This book is perfect for children who love historical adventures and stories about overcoming fear. Curtis masterfully balances heavy themes of slavery and prejudice with his trademark humor and a unique narrative voice, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in Black history and the Underground Railroad. It is a compelling coming-of-age tale that explores the true meaning of freedom and the weight of responsibility. Parents and educators will find it a great choice for sparking deep conversations about history and empathy.

Highlights:

• Winner of the Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Award.
• A unique perspective on the Underground Railroad and life in a free settlement.
• A blend of laugh-out-loud humor and poignant, high-stakes drama.
• Explores themes of bravery, community, and the pursuit of justice.

Willkommen auf Saltkrokan, der kleinen, idyllischen Insel in den schwedischen Schären! Astrid Lindgrens zeitloser Klassiker erzählt die herzerwärmende Geschichte der Familie Melchersson, die ihre Sommerferien im alten Schreinerhaus verbringt. Zwischen glitzernden Wellen, dichten Wäldern und der treuen Bernhardiner-Hündin Bootsmann erleben Pelle, Tjorven und ihre Freunde unvergessliche Abenteuer. Es ist eine Welt voller Unbeschwertheit, in der jeder Tag eine neue Entdeckung bereithält.

Dieses Buch ist perfekt für Kinder, die Geschichten über das Draußensein, echte Freundschaften und die Freiheit der Natur lieben. Eltern, die nach einer Vorlesegeschichte suchen, die Werte wie Zusammenhalt und Lebensfreude vermittelt, werden hier fündig. Ideal für Leser, die sich nach einer Auszeit vom Alltag sehnen und in eine Welt eintauchen möchten, in der die Zeit ein wenig langsamer zu gehen scheint. Ein Muss für jeden Bücherschrank!

Highlights:

• Ein zeitloser Kinderbuchklassiker von der Schöpferin von Pippi Langstrumpf.
• Wunderschöne Schilderungen der schwedischen Natur und des Insellebens.
• Liebevolle Charaktere wie die schlagfertige Tjorven und der tierliebe Pelle.
• Perfekt geeignet zum Vorlesen oder zum ersten Selberlesen längerer Geschichten.

Forge is the gripping second installment in Laurie Halse Anderson's acclaimed Seeds of America trilogy. Set during the brutal winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge, the story follows Curzon, a young man who has escaped the bonds of slavery and is now passing as a free soldier in the Patriot Army. As he battles the blistering winds and starvation that define the camp, Curzon must also navigate the constant fear of discovery and the complex moral landscape of a nation fighting for a freedom that does not yet apply to him.

This novel is an ideal choice for readers interested in the American Revolution and the untold stories of Black soldiers in early American history. When Curzon is reunited with Isabel, his friend from the first book, Chains, they must work together to find a path toward true liberty. Perfect for children who love historical fiction and survival stories, this book offers a deeply researched and emotionally resonant look at the cost of independence. It is a great choice for classroom reading or for any young reader looking for a powerful coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of war.

Highlights:

• A compelling look at the American Revolution through the eyes of a Black soldier.
• Explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the true meaning of freedom.
• Rich historical detail that brings the hardships of Valley Forge to life.
• A powerful sequel that deepens the journey of beloved characters.

Frightful's Mountain is a captivating survival story that continues the beloved saga of Sam Gribley and his peregrine falcon. In this installment, the focus shifts to Frightful as she is forced to navigate the wild on her own. Having been raised by a human, she must learn the essential skills of hunting, migrating, and finding a mate—tasks that do not come naturally to her. This novel is a perfect choice for children who love animals and the great outdoors, offering a unique perspective on the natural world through the eyes of a bird of prey.

Ideal for readers interested in environmental conservation and wildlife, Jean Craighead George’s writing is both educational and deeply moving. It explores the complex relationship between humans and nature, highlighting the challenges endangered species face. Fans of the My Side of the Mountain series will find this a satisfying and emotional journey that explores what it truly means to be free. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers looking for an adventure that is grounded in realistic science and heartfelt storytelling.

Highlights:

• A unique perspective told primarily from the viewpoint of a peregrine falcon.
• Richly detailed descriptions of nature, wildlife behavior, and the environment.
• Explores themes of independence, survival, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.

Step into a world of haunting beauty and chilling magic in Girls of Dark Divine. Emberlyn is a Marionette, one of a group of girls cursed by a sinister Puppet Master to perform an endless, violent dance until they crumble to dust. When the cycle of cruelty claims another sister, Emberlyn decides she can no longer remain a passenger in her own life. Her journey to break the strings leads her to a new theatre filled with dark secrets and a mysterious boy made of shadows, where the price of freedom may be higher than she ever imagined.

This enthralling debut is perfect for readers who love atmospheric Gothic fantasies and high-stakes magical adventures. Ideal for fans of Adalyn Grace and Stephanie Garber, the story weaves together elements of Black Swan with a dark, romantic edge. Parents and educators will find this a great choice for older teens interested in complex narratives about reclaiming agency, the bonds of sisterhood, and the courage required to face one's captors.

Highlights:

• A lush and atmospheric Gothic fantasy setting perfect for fans of dark magic.
• Strong themes of female empowerment, agency, and breaking free from control.
• An electrifying romance intertwined with a high-stakes rebellion.
• Compelling world-building featuring cursed performers and shadow magic.

House of Earth and Blood is the gripping first installment in the Crescent City series, perfect for older readers who love immersive urban fantasy and high-stakes mystery. The story follows Bryce Quinlan, a half-Fae and half-human woman whose life is shattered when a brutal demon murder claims her closest friends. When the crimes resume despite the supposed killer being caught, Bryce is thrust into a dangerous investigation alongside Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel enslaved to the Archangels. Together, they must navigate the dark underbelly of Crescent City to uncover a truth that could destroy everything they hold dear.

This epic tale is an ideal choice for fans of Sarah J. Maas’s other works or readers interested in complex world-building, intense emotional arcs, and a touch of searing romance. With over 800 pages of suspense and magic, it offers a deep dive into themes of grief, the price of freedom, and the enduring power of love. It is a great choice for mature teens and young adults looking for a story that blends gritty detective work with a richly imagined supernatural society.

Highlights:

• A thrilling blend of urban fantasy, murder mystery, and epic romance.
• Complex, relatable characters dealing with loss and redemption.
• Intricate world-building featuring angels, Fae, demons, and shifters.
• High-stakes action and page-turning suspense.

Step into the extraordinary world of Lyra Belacqua, a young girl living among the scholars of Jordan College, Oxford. In this parallel universe, every human is accompanied by a daemon—a physical manifestation of their soul in animal form. When Lyra’s friend Roger is kidnapped by the mysterious "Gobblers," she embarks on a perilous journey to the frozen North. Armed with only a truth-telling device called an alethiometer, she must navigate a landscape of armored bears, witch-clans, and dark scientific experiments that threaten the very fabric of existence.

Philip Pullman’s Northern Lights is a masterwork of storytelling that blends high-stakes adventure with profound philosophical questions. It is the perfect choice for children who love immersive world-building and complex characters. Ideal for readers interested in epic quests and stories that challenge the imagination, this book serves as a gateway to one of the most celebrated trilogies in modern literature. Parents will appreciate the rich vocabulary and the strong, independent female protagonist who relies on her wits and courage to save those she loves.

Highlights:

• The unique concept of daemons as lifelong animal companions.
• Memorable characters like Iorek Byrnison, the heroic armored bear.
• A gripping mystery involving the mysterious substance known as Dust.
• A beautifully realized world that blends Victorian aesthetics with advanced technology and magic.

Steel & Spellfire is a captivating young adult fantasy that blends high-stakes court intrigue with a pulse-pounding murder mystery. Set in the city of Valora, where magic is strictly controlled and mages are feared, Pandora Small must hide her immense power while posing as a debutante during the royal social season. When a series of magical killings begins, she must form an unlikely alliance with Ellis Beacon, a member of the royal guard who knows her secret. This romantic fantasy is perfect for fans of Divine Rivals and The Witch Haven.

Ideal for readers interested in stories about hidden identities and forbidden magic, this novel explores the weight of secrets and the courage required to trust others. Parents looking for a sophisticated YA read with a strong female lead and a slow-burn romance will find this a great choice for their teens. It is a masterful blend of atmospheric world-building and character-driven suspense that keeps readers guessing until the very end. It is a great choice for readers who enjoy complex magic systems and high-society drama.

Highlights:

• A thrilling magical murder mystery set within a glittering royal court.
• Compelling themes of identity, freedom, and the struggle for acceptance.
• A complex, slow-burn romance between a powerful mage and a royal guard.
• Richly detailed world-building and a unique system of governed magic.

Clay has spent his entire life hidden under a mountain, raised by the Talons of Peace to fulfill a mysterious prophecy. Alongside four other dragonets from different tribes, he is destined to end the brutal war tearing through the land of Pyrrhia. However, Clay isn't your typical hero; he’s more interested in his friends and a good meal than fulfilling a destiny he never asked for. When one of their own is threatened, the five dragonets decide to take matters into their own claws, escaping their underground prison to find their families and forge their own paths.

This graphic novel adaptation of Tui T. Sutherland’s bestselling series brings the world of dragons to life with vibrant illustrations and fast-paced dialogue. It is the perfect choice for children who love high-stakes fantasy and stories about found families. Readers who enjoy epic world-building and complex character dynamics will find themselves hooked on the adventures of Clay, Tsunami, Glory, Starflight, and Sunny. It is an ideal pick for reluctant readers who prefer visual storytelling without sacrificing depth or excitement.

Highlights:

• An epic fantasy world featuring seven distinct dragon tribes.
• Themes of choosing your own destiny and the power of friendship.
• Action-packed illustrations that bring the dragon battles to life.
• The first installment in a massive, beloved series for middle-grade readers.

The Horse and His Boy is a captivating and unique installment in C.S. Lewis's beloved Chronicles of Narnia series. Unlike other books in the series, this story takes place entirely during the reign of the Pevensies in Narnia, but focuses on Shasta, a young boy living in the southern land of Calormen. Upon discovering he is about to be sold into slavery, Shasta meets Bree, a talking horse from Narnia who has also been captured. Together, they embark on a perilous journey across the desert toward the North to find freedom and their true home.

As the duo travels, they join forces with a runaway noblewoman named Aravis and her talking horse, Hwin. Their journey becomes a race against time when they uncover a treacherous plot by the Calormen army to launch a sneak attack on Archenland and Narnia. This book is perfect for children who love epic quests, talking animals, and stories of unexpected heroism. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in themes of identity and destiny, as Shasta learns the truth about his heritage while proving his bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.

Highlights:

• A unique perspective on the world of Narnia from outside its borders.
• A heartwarming and humorous bond between a boy and his talking animal companion.
• A fast-paced, high-stakes race against time to save a kingdom from a secret invasion.
• Rich world-building and timeless moral lessons on bravery, humility, and providence.

The One and Only Ivan is a Newbery Medal-winning masterpiece that tells the heart-wrenching yet hopeful story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has lived in a shopping mall enclosure for twenty-seven years. Accustomed to his life behind glass, Ivan spends his days watching television and painting. However, his world is transformed when Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, arrives at the mall. Through Ruby's innocent eyes, Ivan begins to see their captive home differently and realizes he must find a way to secure a better future for them both.

This beautifully written novel is perfect for children who love animal stories and readers who appreciate emotional, thought-provoking narratives. Katherine Applegate uses a unique first-person perspective that allows children to connect deeply with Ivan’s thoughts and feelings. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in animal welfare, the power of art, and the true meaning of friendship. Fans of Charlotte's Web will find a similar blend of humor and poignancy in this modern classic.

Highlights:

• Inspired by the true story of a real gorilla named Ivan.
• Explores deep themes of empathy, courage, and the ethics of animal captivity.
• Short, accessible chapters make it a great choice for reluctant readers.
• Features beautiful illustrations that complement the lyrical prose.

The Queen's Spade is a gripping historical thriller that reimagines the life of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, the real-life African princess who became Queen Victoria's goddaughter. Set in the simmering atmosphere of 1862 Victorian England, this novel follows nineteen-year-old Sally as she navigates the treacherous waters of the royal court. But Sally isn't just a guest; she is a woman fueled by a vow of revenge against the monarchy that stole her from her homeland. This riveting tale blends high-stakes court politics with a dangerous underworld romance, making it a perfect choice for readers who enjoy complex heroines and dark historical secrets.

Ideal for fans of Bridgerton and Belladonna, Sarah Raughley delivers a story where justice and freedom are the ultimate prizes. As Sally manipulates the inner circle of the Crown and faces a looming forced marriage, she must decide if the price of vengeance is worth the sacrifice of her heart. This book is a great choice for teenagers and young adults interested in colonial history, royal intrigue, and stories of powerful women reclaiming their agency.

Highlights:

• Inspired by the fascinating true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta.
• A high-stakes blend of Victorian court politics and London's gritty underworld.
• Explores powerful themes of colonialism, identity, and the quest for freedom.
• Perfect for readers who love historical thrillers with a romantic edge.

The Tombs of Atuan is a hauntingly beautiful masterpiece by Ursula K. Le Guin that takes readers deep into the dark, silent labyrinths of a sacred desert. The story follows Tenar, a young girl stripped of her identity and renamed Arha, 'The Eaten One,' to serve as the high priestess of ancient, nameless powers. Her life is one of isolation and ritual until a mysterious wizard named Ged enters the forbidden Great Labyrinth in search of a lost treasure. This encounter forces Tenar to question everything she has been taught and decide whether to remain in the safety of the shadows or risk everything for freedom.

This classic novel is perfect for children and young teens who love atmospheric world-building and stories about finding one's true self. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in high fantasy, mythology, and complex characters. Parents will appreciate the lyrical prose and the profound themes of choice, trust, and the courage required to break free from tradition. Great for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings who are looking for a more introspective and character-driven adventure.

Highlights:

• A powerful coming-of-age story featuring a strong and complex female protagonist.
• Masterful world-building that creates a vivid and unforgettable underground setting.
• Explores deep philosophical themes like identity, freedom, and the balance of light and dark.
• Part of the legendary Earthsea Cycle, a cornerstone of modern fantasy literature.

Enter the gripping world of Erilea in Throne of Glass, the first installment of Sarah J. Maas's legendary series. The story follows Celaena Sardothien, a notorious eighteen-year-old assassin who is offered a chance at freedom after a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier. To win her liberty, she must act as the Crown Prince’s champion in a deadly competition against twenty-three thieves, murderers, and warriors. If she outlasts them all, she will serve as the King’s Champion for four years before being granted her full pardon.

This novel is a perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes action, intricate world-building, and strong-willed heroines. As Celaena navigates the treacherous waters of the royal court, she finds herself caught between the charming Crown Prince Dorian and the stern Captain of the Guard, Chaol Westfall. However, the competition takes a dark turn when contestants start turning up dead. Ideal for fans of epic fantasy and romantic subplots, this book is a great choice for those who enjoyed The Hunger Games or the Grishaverse series.

Highlights:

• A fierce and talented female protagonist who balances lethality with a love for music and books.
• A suspenseful "deadly game" competition set within a beautifully described glass castle.
• An evolving mystery involving ancient magic and dark forces lurking in the shadows.

To Kill These Monstrous Gods is the high-stakes, action-packed sequel to the bestselling anti-colonial fantasy To Gaze Upon Wicked Gods. In this gripping installment, Yang Ruying, the Girl Blessed by Death, must navigate a world torn apart by war and the oppressive reach of the Roman Empire. As she secretly reunites with her childhood crush, Baihu, Ruying is forced to make impossible choices between love, loyalty, and the survival of her people. This epic tale is perfect for fans of Red Queen and Iron Widow who crave stories of rebellion and magical intrigue.

Ideal for readers interested in complex world-building and strong female protagonists, this book explores the heavy cost of freedom and the blurred lines between hero and villain. Molly X. Chang delivers a hauntingly poetic narrative filled with breathtaking magic and devastating human emotion. It is a great choice for young adults who enjoy dark fantasy, romantic tension, and stories of resistance against tyranny.

Highlights:

• A powerful anti-colonial narrative with high-stakes political intrigue.
• A compelling romance featuring a childhood-friends-to-allies dynamic.
• Intense magical world-building centered on the power of Death.
• Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and dark YA fiction.