We are in the eighteenth century and the War of Independence is raging in North America. Octavian is a slave who is fighting for his freedom by joining with the King’s Army, who have promised freedom to all slaves who fight with them. After a fierce battle, Octavian and his fellow soldiers are pushed into retreat onto a number of ships off the coast of Virginia.

Waiting it out, Octavian learns just how unique his exemplary classical education is – his companions cannot read. He uses his skills and time to record his experiences on the ships and the life stories of other slaves, learning of the hardships he has been spared and drawing conclusions about his own origins.

Yes, you will need to read volume one, Pox Party, which won the National Book Award in the US. Written in Octavian’s peculiar voice, these are challenging reads for Aussie young adults, who would benefit from some historical background before delving into Octavian’s world. Adults should not be put off by the fact that these books live in the young adult section – these are works of literary genius that deserve a much wider readership in Australia. I cannot praise them highly enough!