Two Sisters: A Story of Freedom

This compelling chapter book, part of the 'Voices' series, tells the story of half-sisters Ruth and Anna, whose lives are shaped by the realities of slavery and racial discrimination in 18th or 19th century Jamaica and London. Ruth, brave and outspoken, and Anna, more cautious due to her lighter skin, are sent to London for their safety, only to find themselves separated and facing new dangers. The narrative explores their evolving sisterly bond, Anna's journey to find courage, and the broader historical context of the fight for freedom. It's an extensively researched and deeply affecting novel that provides insight into Black British History and encourages empathy.

In this heart-stopping adventure based on real historical events, Kereen Getten takes readers on a journey of sisterhood, struggle and survival from Jamaica to Britain. 'She was rarely afraid, and even if she was ... she still stood her ground, because Ruth never faltered in what she believed in.' "The superb Voices series takes unsung heroes of the past and imagines them recounting the story of their remarkable lives' " - The Times Ruth and Anna are inseparable. Ruthhas always known her half-sister isn't like her - her almost-white skin means she is allowed certain things that Ruth can only dream of. Annawishes she could be braver, like her sister, Ruth. But she has had to live with the fact that the smallest mistake would land not only her in danger, but Ruth and their mother, too. When Ruth and Anna are shipped off to Master John's home in London for their safety, it isn't the haven they imagined. Their differences force them apart - Anna is allowed to stay upstairs while Ruth is banished to the servants' quarters and is forced to work. With whispers of freedom on the city's streets, will Anna find the courage to stand up for Ruth before it's too late? VOICES: A thrilling series showcasing some of the UK's finest writers for young people. Voices reflects the authentic, unsung stories of our past. Each shows that, even in times of great upheaval, a myriad of people have arrived on this island and made a home for themselves - from Roman times to the present day. PRAISE FOR TWO SISTERS: A STORY OF FREEDOM "As well as highlighting the appalling treatment of slaves, this moving tale, based partially on real events, celebrates the bond between the sisters and the courage of those who help them. An excellent addition to the Voices series, which features stories about historical black and minority ethnic figures, whose contribution to Britain has often gone unrecognised." -BookTrust "Extensively researched and providing an authentic portrayal of a time not frequently covered in children's literature, this book would be excellent to use alongside the teaching of history... This powerful and deeply affecting novel will provide young readers with a deeper insight into Black British History prior to Windrush and, just as this excellent series intends, give a voice to those who previously had none. - Just Imagine "Two Sisters: A Story of Freedomprovides readers with a new point of view and the opportunity to develop empathy for those whom history often forgets. Thank you to Scholastic for this fascinating, powerful book." - Scope For Imagination