Review Detail

THE JOURNEY OF LITTLE CHARLIE features a boy named Charlie who is forced to grow up quickly. When Charlie's dad passes away, he leaves behind a $50 debt to Cap’n Buck. That may not sound like a lot today, but it was for the year 1858. Charlie's mom barely has enough money to feed them let alone to pay off her late husband's debt.

To help pay off the debt, Charlie joins Cap'n Buck's crew to work as they travel North. Charlie couldn't have imagined how cruel Cap'n Buck is and how terrible slavery is. Charlie has the courage to change things, but is naive to the ways of the world. This journey changes so much for him and opens his eyes to reality.

To me, Charlie felt so real and I could see his story unfolding vividly. Christopher Paul Curtis has a way of breathing life to his characters and they grow on you quickly. Being from the south, the southern dialect was welcoming and gave it a Cajun feel. Don't forget to read the Author's Note because it makes you love the story even more.


Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of adventure, history, the 1800s, and sensitive topics like slavery.