Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley was America's first published Black poet. Her poems were published before the Revolutionary War and were recognized throughout the English speaking world. She was born in Africa, sold as a slave in America, and became a celebrity in Europe.

Phillis Wheatley was the first Black woman-poet published in America. Kidnapped and sold as a slave in Boston, her bright mental agility quickly became apparent. Her mistress had her educated, and as a teenager, Phillis began publishing poems to ever-increasing fame. Freed after a return trip from England, Phillis continued to write until her death, forever leaving a mark upon American literature.

The Candlewick Biographies series presents "portraits of people making history and shaping the future." Illustrated with beautiful full-color pictures, each book focuses on a turning point or defining moment in the life of an important individual in history.

Phillis Wheatley was the first published African-American poet. Captured and sold as a slave, her masters encouraged her love of learning and writing through English and Bible lessons. Only 20 when her book of poetry debuted to nationwide acclaim, this fictionalized historical biography will inspire readers with her dedication to knowledge and unwavering faith in Christ. 135 pages, softcover.

Phillis Wheatley was the first published African-American poet. Captured and sold as a slave, her masters encouraged her love of learning and writing through English and Bible lessons. Only 20 when her book of poetry debuted to nationwide acclaim, this fictionalized historical biography will inspire readers with her dedication to knowledge and unwavering faith in Christ. 135 pages, softcover.