Hang a Thousand Trees With Ribbons — Ann Rinaldi

Kidnapped from her home in Senegal and sold as a slave in 1761, a young girl is purchased by the wealthy Wheatley family in Boston. Phillis Wheatley -- as she comes to be known -- has an eager mind and it leads her on an unusual path for a slave -- she becomes America's first published black poet. “Strong characterization and perceptive realism mark this thoughtful portrayal.” -- Booklist