"Hang a Thousand Trees with Ribbons"

Kidnapped from her home in Senegal and sold as a slave in 1761, a young girl is purchased by a wealthy family in Boston.  Named Phillis Wheatley, she shows a knack for learning that leads her on an unusual path for a slave.  When the Wheatleys discover her talent for wirting poetry, they begin to mold her future by having her "perform" for guests.  Eventually she is sent to England where her work is published - the first book of poetry by an African American woman.  Despite her great achivement and the fame that follows, Phillis is troubled about her way of life.  All the trappings of success do nothing to change the fact that she is still a slave.  A tragic true story.

ALA BEST BOOK FOR YOUNG ADULTS

Paperback.  336 pages. Grades 7-9.