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Give Me Liberty
A Recommended Reading Title by Ken Burns’ The American Revolution Resource Center
For thirteen–year–old Nathaniel, an indentured servant in colonial Virginia, life is hard. Though things improve with the help of a kind master named Basil–who shares music, books, and philosophies on equality–around him the climate is heating up. It's 1775 and colonists are enraged by England's taxation. Patrick Henry's words "give me liberty, or give me death" become the sounding call and the American Revolution is about to errupt. Nathaniel and Basil must make a choice about joining the fight and face a larger conundrum about the true meaning of liberty. L. M. Elliott crafts a stirring narrative for middle grade readers–conveying the hopes and dilemmas of this crucial era in American history.
For thirteen–year–old Nathaniel, an indentured servant in colonial Virginia, life is hard. Though things improve with the help of a kind master named Basil–who shares music, books, and philosophies on equality–around him the climate is heating up. It's 1775 and colonists are enraged by England's taxation. Patrick Henry's words "give me liberty, or give me death" become the sounding call and the American Revolution is about to errupt. Nathaniel and Basil must make a choice about joining the fight and face a larger conundrum about the true meaning of liberty. L. M. Elliott crafts a stirring narrative for middle grade readers–conveying the hopes and dilemmas of this crucial era in American history.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2006
76 people are currently reading
526 people want to read
About the author
L.M. Elliott
16 books358 followersL. M. Elliott was an award-winning magazine journalist for 20 years before becoming a New York Times bestselling author of historical and biographical novels. Three-time finalist for the National Magazine Award and winner of multiple Dateline Awards, Elliott focused primarily on women's issues. Her groundbreaking profile of a domestic violence survivor, wife of a high-level federal government appointee, was one of the first to discuss "white-collar" violence against women and the psychological/emotional control intrinsic to the abuse. Elliott’s extensive reporting experience on such topics informed and enriched the themes and characters of TRUTH, LIES, AND THE QUESTIONS IN BETWEEN. It is her third docudrama-novel exploring a fraught political era and the dangers of disinformation, unchecked power, hate-rhetoric, and censorship.
Her 14 novels cover a variety of era--–the Cold War, WWII, the Great Depression, American Revolution, and the Italian Renaissance–--and are for a variety of readerships, ages middle grade to adult. Her works have been honored with the Scott O'Dell, VLA Cardinal Cup, and Grateful American prizes for historical fiction; been named NCSS/CBC Notables, Bank Street College of Education Bests, Kirkus Bests, Capitol Choices, and to the TXLA Tayshas HS Reading Lists; as well as named finalists for state awards in VA, MD, PA, UT, ME, VT, KS, IA, and SC.
She holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a MA in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill.
Her 14 novels cover a variety of era--–the Cold War, WWII, the Great Depression, American Revolution, and the Italian Renaissance–--and are for a variety of readerships, ages middle grade to adult. Her works have been honored with the Scott O'Dell, VLA Cardinal Cup, and Grateful American prizes for historical fiction; been named NCSS/CBC Notables, Bank Street College of Education Bests, Kirkus Bests, Capitol Choices, and to the TXLA Tayshas HS Reading Lists; as well as named finalists for state awards in VA, MD, PA, UT, ME, VT, KS, IA, and SC.
She holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a MA in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
June 20, 2017
A few weeks ago, this book was returned to the book drop at the library where I work. It intrigued me, as I love American history and the cover gave off strong Johnny Tremain vibes. It's difficult to find a historical fiction book that doesn't distort history these days, so I skimmed the author's note, found little known but awesome history facts there (which indicated a perspective I agree with), and decided to try it.
Now the book. Unfortunately, I can't completely rave about how awesome it is because of a few literary flaws. First, I feel like it could have used another editing pass to refine the use of old fashioned language. That aspect was good, but not great. Especially considering the fact that she once referred to Nathaniel's unusually pale blue eyes as "weird-colored" even though according to Webster's 1828 dictionary, "weird" meant "skilled in witchcraft."
My primary complaint is that she shoved in too much historical and cultural information via exposition in the dialogue. Too many characters went on for paragraphs in an "as you know, Bob" manner. Now, as a lover of American history and particularly the American Revolution, I didn't really mind the history, but at the same time, it's a sign to me that she did a lot of research and wanted people to know everything she found out at the cost of the story. I kept comparing it to Johnny Tremain as I read, and Johnny Tremain is just a better written book.
But lest you think I hated this book, I actually really enjoyed it. Yes, there are literary flaws, and no, it doesn't measure up to Johnny Tremain (one of my three favorite historical fictions), but it still managed to be a pretty good book. Not spectacular, but pretty good and I don't regret the read. I liked Nathaniel and obviously I liked the historical period, and the details felt very authentic (minus the use of "weird"). It's very obvious the author spent a lot of time in colonial Williamsburg. Speaking of which, there were some moments of internal squealing at mentions of places in Williamsburg where I've been and lesser known historical figures I learned about on my trip there. (Which was 8 years ago this fall. Wow. I really need to go back.)
So would I recommend it? It depends. If you love the American Revolution, are looking for a book with an accurate perspective, and are willing to overlook some literary flaws, then absolutely. Because seriously, my only complaints are the literary ones already listed. The American Revolution is a fantastic period of history and I love it. And this book reminded me of that fact. Though now I have an urge to go reread Johnny Tremain.
Now the book. Unfortunately, I can't completely rave about how awesome it is because of a few literary flaws. First, I feel like it could have used another editing pass to refine the use of old fashioned language. That aspect was good, but not great. Especially considering the fact that she once referred to Nathaniel's unusually pale blue eyes as "weird-colored" even though according to Webster's 1828 dictionary, "weird" meant "skilled in witchcraft."
My primary complaint is that she shoved in too much historical and cultural information via exposition in the dialogue. Too many characters went on for paragraphs in an "as you know, Bob" manner. Now, as a lover of American history and particularly the American Revolution, I didn't really mind the history, but at the same time, it's a sign to me that she did a lot of research and wanted people to know everything she found out at the cost of the story. I kept comparing it to Johnny Tremain as I read, and Johnny Tremain is just a better written book.
But lest you think I hated this book, I actually really enjoyed it. Yes, there are literary flaws, and no, it doesn't measure up to Johnny Tremain (one of my three favorite historical fictions), but it still managed to be a pretty good book. Not spectacular, but pretty good and I don't regret the read. I liked Nathaniel and obviously I liked the historical period, and the details felt very authentic (minus the use of "weird"). It's very obvious the author spent a lot of time in colonial Williamsburg. Speaking of which, there were some moments of internal squealing at mentions of places in Williamsburg where I've been and lesser known historical figures I learned about on my trip there. (Which was 8 years ago this fall. Wow. I really need to go back.)
So would I recommend it? It depends. If you love the American Revolution, are looking for a book with an accurate perspective, and are willing to overlook some literary flaws, then absolutely. Because seriously, my only complaints are the literary ones already listed. The American Revolution is a fantastic period of history and I love it. And this book reminded me of that fact. Though now I have an urge to go reread Johnny Tremain.
July 8, 2010
From Sept 2006 SLJ
Gr 5-8-Thirteen-year-old indentured servant Nathaniel Dunn arrives in Williamsburg in 1774 to work for the local carriage maker. As the royal governor and the king's loyalists attempt to control the colonists more tightly, it becomes apparent that there will be no peaceful resolution to the tension. Through his friendship with an elderly schoolmaster, Nathaniel is exposed to music, philosophy, and the political ideas of the day. While his inclination is to keep to himself and avoid trouble, he cannot help but be caught up in the events around him. One of his fellow servants is full of patriotic fervor and draws Nathaniel into the protests. The carriage maker, a staunch loyalist, becomes increasingly volatile as his business dwindles in the face of rising tension. In the end, Nathaniel must determine what he believes in and act accordingly. Elliott's engaging and highly readable novel is well researched and sprinkled liberally with renowned patriots of the period. Readers come away not only with an accurate glimpse into 18th-century life, but also with a better understanding of how the colonies cooperated. Particularly noteworthy is the way in which Elliott handles the paradox of colonial Americans fighting for their independence from England yet clinging to the practice of enslaving other human beings. She does not provide pat answers, and Nathaniel's inability to reconcile what he sees around him promises to provoke thoughtful discussion. A rich and robust piece of historical literature.-Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.
Gr 5-8-Thirteen-year-old indentured servant Nathaniel Dunn arrives in Williamsburg in 1774 to work for the local carriage maker. As the royal governor and the king's loyalists attempt to control the colonists more tightly, it becomes apparent that there will be no peaceful resolution to the tension. Through his friendship with an elderly schoolmaster, Nathaniel is exposed to music, philosophy, and the political ideas of the day. While his inclination is to keep to himself and avoid trouble, he cannot help but be caught up in the events around him. One of his fellow servants is full of patriotic fervor and draws Nathaniel into the protests. The carriage maker, a staunch loyalist, becomes increasingly volatile as his business dwindles in the face of rising tension. In the end, Nathaniel must determine what he believes in and act accordingly. Elliott's engaging and highly readable novel is well researched and sprinkled liberally with renowned patriots of the period. Readers come away not only with an accurate glimpse into 18th-century life, but also with a better understanding of how the colonies cooperated. Particularly noteworthy is the way in which Elliott handles the paradox of colonial Americans fighting for their independence from England yet clinging to the practice of enslaving other human beings. She does not provide pat answers, and Nathaniel's inability to reconcile what he sees around him promises to provoke thoughtful discussion. A rich and robust piece of historical literature.-Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.
August 7, 2021
So, I didn't end up finishing this one. It's written for school age kids, but it had a really good beginning, I really got sucked in. But then it turned into a major boring history lesson with dialog... tons of dialog explaining the Boston Tea Party, explaining the unjust taxes etc, etc... So I guess I lost interest. Maybe I'll pick it up again, just to scan through to the end, but I'm thinking I probably won't.
December 14, 2008
I liked this by the end but the first half was soooo slow and I couldn't get through it. There is a LOT of "educational" narrative and although it was interesting at times, I felt like it just slowed down the story. It did make me think about a lot of different perspectives from the Revolutionary War era that I hadn't before.
December 11, 2013
If you like history then give me liberty isms the right book for you. It takes place in the revolutionary war where slaves are still taking place. The main character is nathienel who was sold into skavery and now is working for a man. Now he has a job as a horse taimer. So if you like deep fictional history then this is the book for you.
July 2, 2017
Sometimes you just need a juvenile historical fiction. I enjoyed this one that explored indentured servitude as well as the beginnings of the Revolutionary War.
January 10, 2018
I read this to my kids the past couple weeks, and they all really enjoyed it, especially my 9 year old daughter and son. My 6 year old son wasn't as into it, but when he tuned in completely, he enjoyed it. I'd definitely read another by this author. I love historical fiction for the kids. They can get more of a sense of what times were like in other points in history from a kid's perspective... This was a winner for the whole family.
July 29, 2019
In 1775, Patrick Henry's words "give me liberty, or give me death" become the sounding call for action. But is this action solely for the white men of the colonies? Some enslaved Africans free themselves and rally to false promises of Governor Lord Dunmore who not only betray them, they betray the Virginians who want something better than British lies.
January 13, 2022
I am a huge LM Elliott fan. While this book has her normal impeccable research and interesting characters, it fell flat for me. The characters did not feel as fully developed as in her other historical fiction novels. Still a good read to explore the gritty, confusing time of the American revolution in Virginia.
May 30, 2022
This book was okay. It wasn't anything remarkable, but wasn't terrible either.
Much of the book was filled with places and dates that didn't all relate to the main character directly, so some parts ended up reading like a history lecture.
Nathanial's relationship with Basil was the most interesting part of the story, but left me wanting more.
Much of the book was filled with places and dates that didn't all relate to the main character directly, so some parts ended up reading like a history lecture.
Nathanial's relationship with Basil was the most interesting part of the story, but left me wanting more.
February 13, 2018
I really enjoyed using this novel to help my students better understand and relate to the Revolutionary War. Nathaniel is a great character who goes through many changes. It also has wonderful themes that can focus on the war. Definitely recommend as an educational text.
February 23, 2021
Great story, just hard to read. This was a read aloud for our homeschool history. My 9yo didn't care much for it, but it's a story she needed to hear. Too much truth to this fiction. Glad we read it.
January 2, 2019
It was a good historical fiction book but not one I would choose to read
July 29, 2022
Historical fiction. Great story. A little slow to develop at the beginning, but kept me reading. By the end, I wanted to keep reading. Recommend for those who appreciate the genre.
December 28, 2022
3.5. A fabulous addition to any study of the American revolution. Sparked great conversations with my 12yo about history and philosophy
July 31, 2023
Incredibly boring. Felt like a history lesson the majority of the way through. Skimmed the rest
November 30, 2023
Fantastic book. It was interesting, informative and thought-provoking. Micah and I LOVED it. Perfect for cycle 3 read aloud so we could discuss some of the ideas.
September 25, 2024
Really entertaining, engaging. The kind of book you can't put down! Accurately depicts another side of The Revolutionary War while gripping your heart with a forgiving story. I recommend :)
December 21, 2024
I thought this was a well-researched novel with honorable heroes and a realistic portrayal of the life of an indentured servant in colonial Virginia.
December 8, 2025
Great read aloud for children studying the Revolutionary War
July 16, 2020
Good middle grade historical fiction about colonial times and the Revolutionary War. Kids who like history will be enthralled. Even if your child doesn't like history, they will be captivated by the story.
February 16, 2019
My goodness, what a boring book. Nathaniel is an indentured servant on a York River plantation when he is bought/saved by Mr. Maguire, a music teacher whose brother builds carriages. Nathaniel works in the carriage shop along with fiery patriot, Ben. The American rebellion is underway in Boston, and is trickling down to Virginia. In Williamsburg, people are refusing to drink tea. The royal governor Dunmore is calling in British troops, while small militias are forming to stand against them. Tensions are high. Nathaniel joins the 2nd Virginia regiment in the drum and fife corps. The only mildly interesting part of the book is near the end when his regiment comes up against the British near Norfolk for a decisive win.
I went to William and Mary. Walked the streets of Williamsburg. Know all of the landmarks mentioned in the book. Perhaps that connection is what kept me from abandoning the book, because I knew early on this would not be a book I could recommend. Very sad, because we need more good historical fiction on the Revolutionary War.
I went to William and Mary. Walked the streets of Williamsburg. Know all of the landmarks mentioned in the book. Perhaps that connection is what kept me from abandoning the book, because I knew early on this would not be a book I could recommend. Very sad, because we need more good historical fiction on the Revolutionary War.
January 24, 2017
Nathaniel Dunn, arrives in Colonial Virginia in 1775, as tensions are rising between The king of England and the colonists. As an indentured servant, thirteen-year-old Nathaniel tries to keep his head down and stay out of trouble. Thanks to his skill with horses, he catches a lucky break and meets Basil, a kind man who teaches a wide range of students and subjects. Basil arranges for Nathaniel to work off his indenture at the shop of a carriage maker.
As war approaches, Nathaniel grapples with the meaning of freedom and liberty in a country that is built on the labor of indentured servants and slaves. He thinks deeply about the kind of man he wants to be and whether or not he will join the fight. A coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of America's rocky beginning.
In the author's afterward, I learned that Jefferson had written words condemning slavery in the Declaration of Independence that were struck out by the Continental Congress. (I enjoy reading history now, but spent high school history classes reading novels while pretending to read the history book.) Embarrassing, but true.
I enjoyed this book more than I expected to, and found the relationship between Nathaniel and Basil to be particularly touching. And, in light of American politics at the moment, the story seemed even more relevant to discussions that are happening right now.
As war approaches, Nathaniel grapples with the meaning of freedom and liberty in a country that is built on the labor of indentured servants and slaves. He thinks deeply about the kind of man he wants to be and whether or not he will join the fight. A coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of America's rocky beginning.
In the author's afterward, I learned that Jefferson had written words condemning slavery in the Declaration of Independence that were struck out by the Continental Congress. (I enjoy reading history now, but spent high school history classes reading novels while pretending to read the history book.) Embarrassing, but true.
I enjoyed this book more than I expected to, and found the relationship between Nathaniel and Basil to be particularly touching. And, in light of American politics at the moment, the story seemed even more relevant to discussions that are happening right now.
March 2, 2011
My son and I read this together and we loved the story, the characters, and the rich historical content. A great read for anyone who loves historical fiction and coming-of-age stories of empowerment. I also appreciate the author's balanced perspective of patriots and loyalists, and how she portrays the complexity and socioeconomic aspects of the political conflict of the time in the story, without sacrificing the dramatic momentum of the story. In a nutshell, this book made a big impression on me!
February 14, 2019
Give Me Liberty was a great read! First of all, my favorite historical period (colonial times) and one of my favorite locations (Williamsburg) combine to make the historical part of this very interesting to me. And the second part, Elliott knits together the complex elements of this time to bring out such a vibrant story that I couldn't put this book down if I wanted to. Nathaniel is only 13, and is sold into indentured servitude to a carriage maker. I really enjoyed the realism, scene setting, and a very enjoyable story. Well done!
January 22, 2014
Very good from historical fiction standpoint. Definitely should read the author's comments at the end to understand her research, what was real, what was a compilation, etc. My only complaint is that it was a little slow. But that may be due to the amount of history and details included which were wonderful. Loved that it was a clean book with no off color language or suggestions. Very appropriate for an older elementary student. Enjoyed and appreciated it as an adult reader too. Might be nice to have a map handy to follow the locations, if you're a true history buff.
January 11, 2016
The primary plot was interesting - a young boy who is an indentured servant from England finds his own way in pre-Revolutionary War days in Williamsburg. He is purchased by an older school master who apprentices him to a carriage maker and becomes his teacher/friend. A lot of factual history was dumped into the plot that almost took away from the interesting characters. Perhaps, as an adult, I knew the history and wanted more of the fictional story and a younger reader may have needed the various threats of Lord Dunmore to appreciate the mindset of the era.
April 7, 2016
This book was assigned to my 5th grader. I love history and historic fiction and I want to see what she is learning. It is a good book for a young person to read as it explains slavery and indentured servants in a way that is not often done is a history text. The hero of the story is an indentured servant so you step into his life and his struggles of bondage for a number of years. It also takes place in Williamsburg just as the Revolution is beginning. I myself learned a few things I did not know before. For the middle school student, this is a very good book.
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July 26, 2019Under “normal” circumstances, life is filled with complexities for young adolescents. The year is 1774 and you have landed in Williamsburg, Virginia. Although the story is fictional, Nathaniel’s experiences are authentic and accurately describe the issues, events, and personalities that led to the founding of the United States of America.
What did our reviewer - a history teacher! - think? Read his review.
What did our reviewer - a history teacher! - think? Read his review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews