Give Me Liberty
Give Me Liberty shares the incredible story of Nathaniel Dunn. Thirteen-year-old Nathaniel’s father promptly deserts him after his mother’s death. Nathaniel finds solace when Basil, a music teacher, takes him under his wing. The pair arrives in Williamsburg in 1774 where Nathaniel begins 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 the elderly schoolmaster Basil, Nathaniel learns the music, philosophy, and political ideas of the day.
While Nathaniel’s strives to keep to himself and avoid trouble, he still unintentionally gets caught up in the events around him. In the end, Nathaniel must determine what he believes and act accordingly. The final scenes take place at the Battle of Great Bridge, where Nathaniel encounters people from his past as well as the British army.
Elliott packs a great deal of historical detail into a well-researched novel. Moreover – action, well-drawn characters, and a sympathetic understanding of many points of view fill the pages. Elliott introduces you to many of the renowned patriots of the period. A detailed timeline and a lengthy bibliography conclude this solid historical novel.
- Note: As students read higher level literature, we mindfully watch for more language use. This particular book uses “Great God” and “Good God” in a way that is most likely not meant to be worshipful. Should you wish to use white out in these instances, the Revival to Revolution guide notes the pages for you.
