My Name is Not Angelica

Name: My Name is Not Angelica
ISBN: 9780670834686

by Scott O'Dell

Raisha, forcibly renamed Angelica, endures the horrors of slavery on St. John Island. When a widespread revolt erupts, she joins her fellow enslaved people in a desperate fight for freedom and identit

About This Book

Scott O'Dell's final novel, "My Name is Not Angelica," is a powerful work of historical fiction for middle-grade readers (ages 8-12). It tells the harrowing story of Raisha, a young Senegalese girl captured and brought to the Danish-owned Caribbean island of St. John in 1733. Renamed "Angelica" by her Dutch masters, Raisha experiences the brutal realities of slavery, including forced labor, starvation, and cruel punishments. The narrative culminates in her participation in the real-life slave insurrection of 1733-1734, alongside her betrothed Konje and friend Dondo, as they fight for their freedom and reclaim their identities. This book offers a stark, yet empowering, look at a significant historical event through the eyes of a resilient young protagonist.

Relates the experiences of a young Senegalese girl brought as a slave to the Danish owned Caribbean island of St. John as she participates in the slave revolt of 1733-1734.

Concepts

Justice & Fairness Resilience & Perseverance Fear & Bravery Anger & Frustration Sadness & Grief Self-Confidence & Identity Freedom & Independence Friendship & Loyalty Love & Family Good vs. Evil Empathy & Kindness Cultural Identity Being Different Growing Up History Survival & Wilderness

Heads up, parents

Violence

peril_danger

discrimination

Character Death

separation_from_parent

Discussion Prompts

How does Raisha's name change affect her sense of self? Why is it important for her to remember her true name?

What does this book teach us about the history of slavery and the strength of people fighting for freedom?

What are some examples of bravery shown by Raisha and the other enslaved people?