Shelly's Book Blog

I listened to Elijah of Buxton, by Christopher Paul Curtis. The story is based on real historical events. The Elgin settlement, also known as Buxton, Candada, was founded in 1849 by a white reverend named William King. It was a place where people who had escaped from slavery in America lived. In Curtis's wonderful book, 11-year-old Elijah, who was the first free-born child born in Buxton, narrates. The beginning of the book is lighthearted and humorous, as we hear Elijah describe life in his community. Later, things become more serious, and Elijah travels to America to track down a thief. Elijah does a lot of growing up during the story, as he successfully handles this terrifying situation by himself.

The story is read by Mirron E. Willis. Wow! He did such a great job! He uses distinct voices for all the characters and really brings the story to life. I highly recommend experiencing Curtis' book by listening to  Willis' superb performance.