Amos Fortune, Free Man

Written by Elizabeth Yates

Grade:

5-8

ISBN-13:

978-0140341584

Publisher:

Puffin Books (1989)

This biographical work tells the story of Amos Fortune, an African prince who was captured and sold into slavery in New England during the mid 18th century. Taken and forced into slavery at the age of fifteen, Amos yearns for freedom while learning to read and write and mastering the skill of a tanner. With a steadfast heart and inspiring perseverance, Amos endures incredible hardship and suffering and works to save money in order to buy his freedom. Decades later, Amos purchases his own freedom and the freedom of others, and he soon establishes his own business and becomes a respected and greatly valued member of the community. This remarkable story recounts a life of moral strength, the life of a man of perseverance, faith, hope, and generosity.