Shelley Pearsall's Trouble Don't Last receives praise for its vivid storytelling and well-developed characters, particularly the portrayal of young Samuel and the urgency of his plight. Critics highlight the novel’s historical accuracy and emotional depth. Some find the pacing slow at times, but overall, it captivates readers with its heartwarming and intense narrative.

A reader who enjoys Trouble Don't Last by Shelley Pearsall appreciates historical fiction, gripping narratives of escape from slavery, and transformative journeys. This book is ideal for fans of Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson and Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, targeting middle-grade audiences and history enthusiasts.

Trouble Don’t Last by Shelley Pearsall follows 11-year-old Samuel, who was born into enslavement in Kentucky and raised by Harrison and Lilly after his mother was sold away. Samuel and Harrison undertake a perilous journey to Canada in pursuit of freedom, facing numerous challenges along the way and utilizing the Underground Railroad and the kindness of strangers to navigate dangers and evade capture. The story contains descriptions of enslavement, abuse, death, and the forced separation of families.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Challenging / Emotional / Hopeful

- Trouble Don't Last received the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction in 2003, recognizing its exceptional portrayal of history in a children’s novel. 
- Shelley Pearsall was inspired to write Trouble Don't Last after discovering family stories of ancestors who lived during the era of slavery.

Shelley Pearsall

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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Trouble Don't Last Summary and Study Guide

Background

Trouble Don't Last Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-7

Trouble Don't Last Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-13

Trouble Don't Last Chapters 8-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-19

Trouble Don't Last Chapters 14-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-25

Trouble Don't Last Chapters 20-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-32

Trouble Don't Last Chapters 26-32 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Trouble Don't Last Character Analysis

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Themes

Trouble Don't Last Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Trouble Don't Last Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Trouble Don't Last Essay Topics

Trouble Don't Last

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Trouble Don't Last?

Reading Age

Book Details