ashes laurie halse anderson

Ashes is historical fiction set during the American Revolutionary period (Colonial/Revolutionary era) and focuses on themes of liberty, slavery, and the struggle for freedom.

The story centers on Isabel and Curzon—fugitives determined to find Isabel’s younger sister Ruth and to secure freedom for themselves while navigating wartime dangers and personal conflicts.

Ashes examines the contradiction of fighting for national independence while slavery continues, showing characters wrestling with what freedom truly means. The book makes the point that “freedom would not be handed to us like a gift. Freedom had to be fought for and taken.”

Yes. The book includes an appendix in Q&A form that provides additional historical context and suggests resources to help readers better understand the era.

Reviews praise Ashes for vivid, detail-rich writing and a compelling, plot-driven narrative that brings history to life and encourages reader empathy for the characters.