The life of the eighteenth- century African prince, who, after being captured by slave traders, was brought to Massachusetts where he was a slave until he was able to buy his freedom at the age of sixty.

Full of fascinating details about the tanning (leather goods) trade this memorable books reveals the struggles free black men went through in the 1800's to make a living and have a family. ( )

Good potential to develop a theme: devoting oneself to creating freedom wherever one goes. But we weren't given enough time to understand and appreciate Amos' character. Age 15 to 90 in 180 pages! And I found it hard to discern the point of the book: to marvel at Amos' wisdom? to describe lives of slaves and freedmen? to regret our prejudiced past? I'm not sure. One final note: the scene where Amos is jovially bidding on himself at the slave auction is very creepy! ( )

A quiet Newbery, excellent biography of a remarkable man. Amos was originally purchased by a godly man (as told, purchased in spite of his opposition to slavery, because of compassion on the boy). It was in this household where Amos learned to love God and the Bible. People who dislike the book seem to identify a problem with how Amos's religion shaped his responses to life. It's hard to look into a person's life from today's perspective, particularly as it involves slavery. Yates clearly portrays the evils of inequality, of slavery. She offers commentary on religious people who used Scripture to keep slaves docile. She does not gloss over the mistreatment Amos receives, but neither does she create a character different than the one he was. Altogether satisfying, although it is probably not a book a child will read on his own and reread often.

The remarkable story of Amos, a slave in Massachusetts. Born the son of a chief in Africa, the story follows his capture and sale in America and on through his purchase of freedom. A remarkable, unique look at slavery in New England. ( )