Reading Metrics
Description
When the Slave Esperança Garcia Wrote a Letter is based on the true story of a Brazilian slave woman who was sold away from her family in 1770. The book follows Esperança as she writes a letter to the governor describing the cruel treatment she endured at the hands of her new master, including being overworked to the point of exhaustion. Set in colonial Brazil during the era of slavery, the story highlights Esperança's courage in speaking out against injustice and her desperate plea to be returned to her previous farm and family.
Quick Summary
This little-known true story of an 18th-century Brazilian woman who used pen and paper to demand freedom from cruelty will open kids' eyes to history's real heroes. Young readers will cheer for Esperança as she defies her master, wears her fingers raw writing her petition, and takes bold action despite terrifying risks. If your kid loves historical fiction with brave characters like "Esperanza Rising" or "The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon," they'll be moved by this true tale of courage. Ideal for readers ages 8 to 12 in grades 3 through 7.