55 pages 1 hour read

Julius Lester

To Be a Slave

Nonfiction | Biography | Middle Grade | Published in 1968

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Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

To Be a Slave by Julius Lester is a powerful, evocative account of the experiences of enslaved Africans in America. Praised for its vivid narrative and authentic voices, the book effectively conveys the harsh realities of slavery. However, some readers find the content distressing. Overall, it is a significant educational resource on American history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read To Be a Slave?

A reader who would enjoy To Be a Slave by Julius Lester is likely interested in first-person historical narratives and the African American experience. They may also appreciate works like Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass and Roots by Alex Haley, which similarly delve into the harrowing realities of slavery.

Recommended

Reading Age

12+years

Lexile Level

1040L

Book Details

Topics
History: U.S.
Race / Racism
Education
Themes
Identity: Race
Values/Ideas: Equality
Society: Nation
Genre
Children's Literature
Education
Classic Fiction