Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2007. ELIJAH OF BUXTON. Scholastic: New York. 9780439023443.
PLOT SUMMARY:
This story, set in the days of the Underground Railroad, tells the tale of a young boy named Elijah, born free in the Canadian settlement of Buxton. Elijah has a frail soul and a good heart, and this personality combination mixes with his mischevious tendencies to get him into some trouble, such as running away to America in order to help a friend get money to buy his family out of the slave trade. Elijah proves himself to be a loyal friend and a very brave being.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This story takes the time to describe some of the hardships of being a person of color in this controversial era, which is an unfortunate part of our nation's history. Christopher Paul Curtis uses the voice of this boy (Elijah) to help young readers connect not only to the trials of being an 11-yr-old boy, but also the desire to help others in less fortunate situations. His bravery and willingness to put himself into dangerous situations for the sake of others is something from which everyone, both youg and old, can learn a lesson. An ending provoking both happy and sad tears will leave no one wondering why Christohper Paul curtis is a favorite writer of many, including myself.
EXCERPT REVIEW:
Newbery Honor Book
Coretta Scott King Award
Scott O'Dell Award
"Many readers drawn to the book by humor will find themselves at times on the edges of their seats in suspense and, at other moments, moved to tears." ~Booklist
CONNECTIONS:
This book may be used in conjunction with Bud, Not Buddy and The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963 as part of an author study on Christopher Paul Curtis. It would also be a meaningful read aloud to introduce or reiterate to students the perils of slavery in our nation's history. The 6 + 1 Writing Traits could also be taught in this book, concentrating mainly on the traits of VOICE and WORD CHOICE.
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