The novel, Chains, was written by Laurie Halse Anderson, and it is a very intense story. It is a novel about the life of a young female slave during the “American War of Independence”. During the story, Isabel (the young slave), and her little sister Ruth were promised freedom by their previous owner, but when their Aunt died, her grandson sells them.

When Isabel and Ruth arrived in New York they met a boy named Curzon, who helps them during the whole story. Although Isabel is a slave she is very wise, and her knowledge helps her throughout her life as a slave. Isabel and Ruth were sold to Mrs. and Mr. Lockton, who were loyalist. During the story Ruth, who was  five years old, was sold, and when Isabel found out, she attempted to run away. Isabel was captured and was punished in multiple ways, and she was also branded with an “I” on her face to symbolize insolence. Throughout the book Isabel went through a series of unfortunate events that made her even stronger than she already was.

Although Anderson never intended to be an author, she succeeded in writing sixteen novels and books. Anderson has received numerous awards for her novels, and her work has been placed on the recommended reading list. She also received the Edgar Allan Poe award, the Los Angeles Times book prize, and the Printz Honor Medal Book Award. Anderson was born on October 23,1961 in Potsdam, New York. She’s currently married to Gregory H. Anderson and they have two daughters. She received her A.A from Onondaga Country Community College in 1981; she then earned a B.S in language and linguistics from Georgetown University in 1984.

My opinion on the novel Chains is that it is a very amazing book. Anderson uses very descriptive words, and as you are reading, it feels like you are really there. While you are reading, you feel the feelings that Isabel felt. I would recommend this book to all of my friends. I would recommend it because it’s a very touching story, you can relate to it in many ways. It’s a very positive story, and there is high suspense throughout the entire book. This story can be read by audiences 12 and up, and they’ll all enjoy it.