Ashes

Laurie Halse Anderson
43 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2016

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Book Brief

Laurie Halse Anderson

Ashes

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Children`s Literature

•

Realistic Fiction
Period
Colonial America

•

American Revolution
Setting

Eastern United States • 1770s

Theme
Memory
Topic
Military & War

•

World History
First Publication Year

2016

Publisher

Brilliance Audio

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

820L

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Super Short Summary

In Ashes by Laurie Halse Anderson, Isabel Gardener and Curzon Smith, two black teenagers who escaped slavery during the American Revolution, search for Isabel's sister Ruth while facing multiple hardships. Once they find Ruth, she initially rejects Isabel, but they eventually reunite and navigate their complex relationships and struggles against the backdrop of the war.

Emotional

Bittersweet

Adventurous

Inspirational

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

8,607 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Laurie Halse Anderson's Ashes is widely praised for its historical accuracy, compelling characters, and vivid depiction of the Revolutionary War. However, some critics suggest that the pacing is uneven, with certain sections feeling slower than others. Nonetheless, Anderson's ability to weave an engaging narrative with rich historical detail is highly valued by readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ashes?

A reader who would enjoy Ashes by Laurie Halse Anderson is likely a young adult or historical fiction enthusiast, captivated by strong, character-driven narratives set during pivotal moments in history. Fans of Ann Rinaldi’s Numbering All the Bones or Lois Lowry’s Number the Stars will find Ashes equally compelling.

4.4

8,607 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

A determined and hardworking young woman who holds her group of friends together while navigating complex family dynamics and personal challenges. Her journey involves balancing her loyalty to loved ones with recognizing her own emotional needs.

An idealistic and empathetic individual who often provides a calming influence on Isabel. He is committed to the fight for a better future, embodying hope and courage within both personal and historical contexts.

Isabel’s younger sister, exhibiting kindness and an affinity for animals despite facing personal challenges such as epilepsy. Her relationship with Isabel requires understanding and openness for reconciliation.

A young boy intertwined with Ruth’s life, who harbors dreams of freedom and chooses to spy for the British, showcasing the conflicted realities for enslaved individuals during the Revolution. His story highlights the forgotten humanity amidst historical conflicts.

An elderly couple who care for Ruth and Aberdeen during their enslavement and embody quiet heroism. Their actions offer support and guidance, influencing the younger characters’ paths to freedom and justice.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Children`s Literature

•

Realistic Fiction
Period
Colonial America

•

American Revolution
Setting

Eastern United States • 1770s

Theme
Memory
Topic
Military & War

•

World History
First Publication Year

2016

Publisher

Brilliance Audio

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

820L

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