Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature)
Your family can journey back in place and time by visiting Colonial Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Virginia, about a three-hour drive from Washington, D.C. Kids curious about mid-18th century life in this former Virginia capitol will relish historical fiction by Joan Lowery Nixon. Part of the carefully researched "Young Americans" series, Ann's Story: 1747 and Caesar's Story: 1759, are based on the lives of two young people who lived during that time and include interesting author's notes about medicine, childhood, and slavery. Ann MacKenzie was the daughter of an apothecary (a druggist-doctor) and Caesar was a nine-year-old slave. 2000, Delacorte, $9.95. Ages 8 to 12.

Leslie Verzi Julian (Children's Literature)
Mrs. Otts, a tour guide in present-day Williamsburg, is an excellent storyteller. A group of young people gather to hear her telling of the story of Caesar, a young slave in the 1700s. This opening format provides excellent factual background. Up until he is seven years old, Caesar, the son of slaves, is best friends with Nat, the son of slave owners. Sadly, at seven they are both told that "the past is over." They are to face the responsibilities which come with their differences in position. This, along with the new back-breaking work, disheartens Caesar. He longs to be free. Even more devastating is the newest change; Caesar's father, a gifted carpenter, is hired out to work for a cabinetmaker far away in Williamsburg. With his mother and sister working in the fields and his older sister working in the big house, Caesar tries to fill his father's shoes by attempting to catch opossum and fish to supplement the family's meager rations. Just growing used to this position, Caesar is again shocked when he learns that his former best friend, Nat, now the owner in training, has chosen Caesar as his personal servant in the big house--away from his mother and sister. "He felt like a dried leaf, blowing in the wind, unable to even choose where to land." He wondered if his life would always be like this. An older slave had once told Caesar, "In this life everybody must make his own place." Here, under Master Nathaniel, Caesar will learn what it means to grow up and to hold onto that light inside himself called spirit--no matter what. The narrative is followed by an intriguing account of the research used to construct the story. There is also a history of Williamsburg, The Revolutionary War, Modern Williamsburg, Childhood in 18th Century Virginia, and Slavery in Colonial Virginia. For those who want a taste of authentic colonial food, a recipe for bean hominy is even included. This is an excellent book for both home and school. 2000, Delacorte Press, $9.95. Ages 10 to 14.