This book is an incredible read and I'm still processing that it's for middle-grade readers as obviously there is some moments of ab*se to the slaves with the receiving 'punishment'. (I'm being extremely careful here with my phrasing given the nature of the book and people who read this will understand what I'm implying.)

I didn't know anything about the Great Dismal Swamp and those who lived there once they'd escaped from plantations etcetera so this was both enlightening nad harrowing to be reminded of the horrors inflited on others for the colour of their skin. Sadly, something we don't seem to have learned from and put to rest given the rise in race hate in the UK   currently.

Freewater is a book that stays with you, that brings the darkness of history to the forefront of your thoughts and lingers there. Whilst it may well be written for children, I would say anyone can read this book and take something from it, especially the strength in a person to survive; of how freedom should be yours and never earned or controlled. That silence isn't always a strength and to break free can be both hard and ultimately harrowing.

I was shaken to my core of the determination of the plantation owner to possess and dominate and I can see Freewater is a conversation starter of an era both England and America should be ashamed of whether it's read at home or school. Amina Luqman-Dawson won both the Coretta Scott medal and Newberry medal last year for Freewater and it's much deserved.

This is a book all should read, and then as I will do? I think learn more about these incredibly strong fighters and survivors who just wanted to be people not possessions.