• Bulk Order Discounts: Order 5 or more books (same title) and save 15%.
• Order Online: Order online with MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, or PayPal.
• Order By Mail: Send your order with a school/district check. No personal checks accepted.

About the Book     Amos Fortune, Free Man

Amos Fortune, Free Man, a Newbery-Winning book by Elizabeth Yates, tells the true story of Amos Fortune, an African prince who is captured and sold into slavery in America.

Despite the inhumane conditions of his captivity, Amos never loses his dignity or the hope of freedom. Over the years, he works tirelessly, eventually earning his freedom. He then uses his skills to secure the freedom of others, leaving a lasting legacy. The book not only dives into Amos’s life and struggles but also illuminates the broader context of slavery in America, making it a vital narrative for understanding American history.

Historical Insight: The book provides a personal view into the dark history of slavery and the fight for freedom in America, helping students understand the past's complexities and the resilience of those who fought for their rights.

Character Education: Amos Fortune's life story is a powerful example of integrity, perseverance, and compassion, offering valuable lessons on character to young readers.

Cultural Awareness: This novel enables students to explore African and American heritage, fostering an appreciation for cultural diversity and the strength of the human spirit in adversity.

Themes in the book   Amos Fortune, Free Man

Freedom and Slavery: At the heart of Amos Fortune, Free Man is the theme of freedom versus slavery. Amos's life story starkly contrasts his birth as a free prince in Africa with his subsequent capture and enslavement in America. His quest for freedom is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional. Discuss with your students how Amos's journey symbolizes the universal struggle for freedom and the resilience of the human spirit.

Perseverance and Resilience: Amos Fortune's story is a testament to perseverance and resilience. Despite the numerous challenges and injustices he faces, Amos remains steadfast in his efforts to regain his freedom and build a life of dignity and purpose. This theme can inspire students to reflect on their own challenges and the importance of perseverance.

Compassion and Generosity: Throughout his life, Amos exhibits remarkable compassion and generosity, even towards those who have wronged him. His acts of kindness and his desire to help others, including buying the freedom of other enslaved individuals, highlight the theme of compassion. This is a powerful theme to explore in the context of building empathy and understanding in young readers.

Identity and Self-Worth: Amos's journey is also about reclaiming his identity and self-worth. Despite being stripped of his royal status and subjected to slavery, Amos never loses sight of his inherent dignity. This theme can lead to discussions about the importance of self-respect and the ways in which society can both undermine and reinforce individual identity.

Faith and Spirituality: Faith and spirituality play a significant role in Amos Fortune's life. His strong belief in a higher power and his trust in God's plan provide him with strength and guidance. This theme can open up conversations about the role of faith in personal resilience and moral decision-making.

Activity Ideas     for the book Amos Fortune, Free Man

Discussion Groups: Organize discussion sessions focusing on different aspects of Amos’s life, the historical period, and the book's themes. Encourage students to share their thoughts and reflections.

Research Projects: Assign research projects on the history of slavery in America, the abolition movement, other freedom fighters, and other notable figures like Amos Fortune. This will enrich students' understanding and engagement with the book's subject matter.

Character Analysis: Have students pick a character from the book and analyze their development, motives, and the lessons they embody. This exercise can foster empathy and deeper comprehension of complex characters and narratives.

Creative Writing: Encourage students to write letters or diary entries from Amos's perspective or that of another character. This can help students explore the emotional and historical depth of the novel.

Cross-Curricular Connections: Integrate the book into lessons on American history, art, and social studies to provide a multifaceted educational experience. Discussing the book's themes alongside historical events can offer a richer understanding of the past and its impact on the present.