Copper Sun

By: Sharon M. Draper

Narrated by: Myra Lucretia Taylor

Length: 8 hrs and 55 mins

Publisher's Summary

Fifteen-year-old Amari witnesses the murder of her family and the destruction of her remote African village. She endures countless humiliations as she is beaten, branded, and forced to board a slave ship. The atrocities continue as she struggles through endless days of backbreaking work and daily degradation on a plantation.

Somehow, through it all, Amari's hopes and dreams survive, because there are moments of kindness from an indentured white girl, Polly, and the gentle wife of the plantation owner. Amari and Polly find that by working together, freedom could be possible.

In this well-researched novel, award-winning author and educator Sharon M. Draper successfully embarks upon historical fiction to explore plantation life.

©2006 Sharon M. Draper (P)2006 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic Reviews

"Draper builds the explosive tension to the last chapter, and the sheer power of the story, balanced between the overwhelmingly brutal facts of slavery and Amari's ferocious survivor's spirit, will leave [listeners] breathless, even as they consider the story's larger questions about the infinite costs of slavery and how to reconcile history." (Booklist)

A great story for all to read

Would you listen to Copper Sun again? Why?

I listened to this book because my daughter had it over the summer as a reading assignment. I was in awe of the story and how real it felt, I could visualize it all as if I was there. It kept my interest from beginning to end and opened up alot of dialogue with me and my daughter about slavery. I would recommend anyone to listen to this book. Well done Sharon Draper and Myra Taylor did an awesome job narrating.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Amari was my favorite character. She endured so much and you learn through her how to persevere and stay strong.

Which character – as performed by Myra Lucretia Taylor – was your favorite?

Teenie was my favorite.

Who was the most memorable character of Copper Sun and why?

Amari was the most memorable character. For a young girl to see her family killed, endure the struggles that she encountered. You learn the true meaning of strength through this young girl.

Wonderful Story

I know 8 hours is a long time, but this story is worth every minute. There was never a boring moment in the story and the narration was excellent. I would strongly recommend this.

Good book.

This was my son's summer reading project. I hate slave books. Although I purchased the book for him, I also let him listen to it because I felt for him. Although we both found the action disturbing, my son came to me on several occasions to discuss this book. He also read along on some parts! It was interesting and the narrator did a great job. The only reason I didn't give it five is because it started off too slow. In the beginning I was ready to turn it off. So bear with her.

One of Best!!

This book did start out a little slow, but once it get going you cant stop listening, this book stays with you, it was so beautifully written. I enjoyed this book from beginning to end!! I dont even have the words, it was just one of the best books I've read!!!! I find myself wanting to thank the author for such a wonderful book!!

very good book would recommend to another reader

would recommend to reader who likes suspense. if you like a book with nail biting suspense

just awesome!! I am hoping for another book!!

If you could sum up Copper Sun in three words, what would they be?

gripping, heart breaking and inspirational!!

What about Myra Lucretia Taylor’s performance did you like?

Ms. Taylor's performance was great! Her portrayal of the characters matched the author's description and really bought the story to life.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes!

What a good story!

What did you love best about Copper Sun?

I am so glad I took the time to listen to this book; if I had to read it I don't think I would have gotten through the story; but to have someone read the story to me was Wonderful! I would recommend it to others!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Copper Sun?

I when Armi was able to reach the free land!

Have you listened to any of Myra Lucretia Taylor’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This was my first time listening to Myra and I would listen to her again

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When her parents was killed and how the Whites came to the village and ate their food then took their lives; so very sad.

Don't miss this one

Have you listened to any of Myra Lucretia Taylor’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

The performance of Myra Taylor deserves an award. Her talent and skill for becoming several characters, all different from one another is extraordinary.

Any additional comments?

A truly remarkable experience. I enjoyed it immensely. So glad I discovered it on Audible!

Overly Simplistic

The story, language and performance left me feeling as if this book would be better classified as appropriate for middle school students. The story certainly had potential but the characters were "cardboard" with no depth or subtlety.

The narrator reinforced the beginning reader quality with a voice that verged on sing-song. There was no change in tone distinguishing serious or painful moments for lighter passages.

Though I had high hopes for the story, I was sadly disappointed.

Great Listen

I really enjoyed this book. I could not wait to get in my car to listen while driving to work.
This is a wonderful novel.