Description
Kidnapped from her home in Senegal and sold as a slave in 1761, a young girl is purchased by the wealthy Wheatley family of Boston. Phillis Wheatley-as she comes to be known-has an eager mind and knack for learning that leads her on an unusual path for a slave. When the Wheatleys discover Phillis’ talent for writing poetry, they begin to mold her future by having her “perform” for influential guests. Eventually she is sent to England, where her work is finally published-the first book of poetry by an African American woman. Despite her great achievement and the fame that follows, Phillis is troubled about her way of life. All of the trappings of success do nothing to change the fact that she is still a slave. (Softcover, 336 pages)
