Historical Fiction

Chains

First off, let me just say this is one of the most captivating books about slavery I've ever read. 

Usually, historical fiction books about slavery are set in the Civil War era, at least in my experience. Chains, however, takes place in the weeks leading up to the Revolutionary War.  —It is set in Rhode Island and Manhattan. these places also allow for an interesting perspective into slavery during this time period, because they are located in the northern colonies, typically though as of "free" areas. 

The story begins right after Miss Mary Finch’s, the owner of Isabel, death. Though she was promised freedom by Miss Finch, Isabel and her sister Ruth are given to Miss Finch's nephew, because there is no written proof. The unkind nephew sells the two sister to the Locktons, a Loyalist family in New York. 

  The story follows Isabel as she pursues her opportunity of finding freedom.

—Isabel constantly thinks about running away from the Locktons. With the Revolutionary War in sight, Isabel cannot decide whether or not to side with the Loyalists or the Rebels. Both sides support slavery. Her owners are Loyalists; the Rebels promise Isabel her freedom if she sides with them. The rebels also promise to find Ruth, who was sent away. —Curzon, another slave, convinces Isabel to spy on her owners, because they know about an upcoming British invasion.Throughout the story, Isabel deals with important decisions and conflicts that will ultimately determine her fate and her sister's fate. 

This was really interesting to me- What would I do if I was in Isabel's shoes?

Other points that I liked about the book: 

Each chapter begins with some sort of advertisement, quote, or piece of journalism from the time period. It gives the reader a sense of setting and time period.

Students learn about the historical and cultural aspects of the North(especially aspect of slavery) during the time before and during the American Revolution.

This book challenges the reader to think critically about the theme of “freedom” and what that word really means. It also prompts the reader to think about how he or she would go to gain freedom. 

I think a fun (and educational) activity would be to have student imagine they were in Isabel's position. What decision would they make? Would they side with the Loyalists or Rebels? What would they sacrifice fro freedom? 

Historical Fiction or Fictionalized History?

I have always loved reading historical fiction- always. I think they provide excellent vehicles for learning history through interesting fictionalized accounts of characters and story lines.  Being that my content areas are language arts and social studies, I feel like historical fiction books are perfect ways to link the two content areas together. I would love to have the opportunity to do a novel study among two different areas of focus. I really enjoyed reading this article and its distinction between historical fiction and fictionalized history. it is interesting to think about the difference between the two, and it is interesting to think about which I will incorporate into my future classroom. In both cases, accuracy and relevancy are important aspects to consider when choosing books for a classroom. 

Debate Reflection

We often talk a lot about historical bias in our pedagogical "teaching social studies/ history" class. We are expected to note that any author or group of authors is always somewhat biased- whether they are aware of it or not. Regardless of one's basis and depth of knowledge, he or she will always include their perspective on the given historical matter. Is it necessary for teachers to disclose this to students? Should we have student contemplate potential biases in historical fiction? I believe the answers are absolutely yes! Teachers should encourage their students to think critically and question the history with which they are presented. 

I also believe that students should be encouraged to see history as a process, not a past event. It is always up for interpretation and critique. Students should be aware of the implications that various points of view have on historical thinking. Furthermore, students should be enlightened in knowing that history affects the present and future.