Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper receives acclaim for its powerful and poignant depiction of slavery, with readers praising its emotional depth and historical accuracy. Critics highlight Draper's compelling narrative and well-developed characters. However, some note the graphic content may be intense for younger audiences. Overall, it is a highly respected contribution to historical fiction.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with deep emotional impact, such as Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor or Roots by Alex Haley, will find Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper compelling. This novel appeals to those interested in stories of resilience and the human spirit during the era of American slavery.

Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper follows fifteen-year-old Amari from Ziavi, Ghana, who is kidnapped by slavers after her village is destroyed and her family killed. She endures a harrowing journey to the Americas, where she is sold to a plantation in South Carolina. Alongside Polly, a white indentured servant, and Tidbit, a young boy, Amari ultimately finds a path to freedom in Spanish Florida. Sensitive topics include violence, sexual assault, and the brutality of slavery.

Dark / Emotional / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Bittersweet

- Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper was awarded the Coretta Scott King Award in 2007, which recognizes outstanding African American authors and illustrators.
- The novel is inspired by historical research into the transatlantic slave trade and aims to bring awareness to the harrowing experiences of enslaved peoples.
- Sharon M. Draper, the author of Copper Sun, is a National Teacher of the Year awardee, reflecting her dedication to education and literature.

**Amari**  
A young African girl who endures many hardships and seeks strength through difficult experiences, showing resilience and growth throughout the story.

**Polly**  
A white girl who initially contrasts with Amari but gradually aligns more closely with her, reflecting on societal norms and her own prejudices during their journey.

**Percival Derby**  
A white plantation owner at Derbyshire Farms who embodies the oppressive and arrogant attitudes of his time.

**Clay Derby**  
The son of Percival Derby, who exhibits a complex and troubling relationship with Amari, revealing the deep-seated issues of the era.

**Isabelle Derby**  
Percival's wife, who presents a more compassionate demeanor toward enslaved individuals despite living within an oppressive system.

**Teenie**  
An experienced elder at Derbyshire Farms who becomes a maternal figure to Amari and provides wisdom about resilience and remembrance.

Sharon M. Draper

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Copper Sun and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Copper Sun Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part One: Amari

Chapters 1-3

Copper Sun Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

Copper Sun Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-9

Copper Sun Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-13

Copper Sun Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Part Two: Polly

Chapters 14-16

Copper Sun Chapters 14-16 Summary & Analysis

Part Three: Amari

Chapters 17-20

Copper Sun Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: Polly

Chapters 21-22

Copper Sun Chapters 21-22 Summary & Analysis

Part Five: Amari

Chapters 23-24

Copper Sun Chapters 23-24 Summary & Analysis

Part Six: Polly

Chapters 25-27

Copper Sun Chapters 25-27 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 28-30

Copper Sun Chapters 28-30 Summary & Analysis

Part Seven:  Amari

Chapters 31-35

Copper Sun Chapters 31-35 Summary & Analysis

Part Eight: Polly - Part Eleven: Amari

Chapters 36-39	

Copper Sun Chapters 36-39	 Summary & Analysis

Part Eleven: Amari

Chapters 40-42

Copper Sun Chapters 40-42 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Copper Sun Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Copper Sun Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Copper Sun Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Copper Sun Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Copper Sun Essay Topics

Copper Sun

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Who Should Read Copper Sun?

Reading Age

Book Details