Jefferson's Sons: A Founding Father’s Secret Children

This book is historical fiction written by a woman who did extensive research of Thomas Jefferson and Monticello. The book is also written for the younger reader...which I am not but often read a book prior to giving as gift to my grandchildren. I adore this book as seen by the slaves of Monticello... who have the father of our Constitution as Master. There is much debate whether Sally Hemmings's children are father by Thomas Jefferson...Sally as a young slave girl who goes to Paris as maid to his daughter and becomes his mistress even after returning to Virginia. What if...yes, what if it is true and we only knew the story in her slave quarters with her children growing into adulthood. A fascinating read as Kimberly Brubaker Bradley weaves a wonderous story of Sally's and Mr. Jefferson's seven children...some of the children are not allowed to serve in the 'big house' when visitors are around because they look so much like their father, some have the musical talents of the father and some early on understand slavery and cannot understand how they are slaves of Mr. Jefferson who was president and claims to believe 'all men are created equal......'. I think a must read for any history student and a read that needs to happen in the teen years or earlier for both sides of the slavery issue. A most thought provoking book for any age. Jefferson's Sons

I am a 40 year old professional who has a difficult time finding books that hold my attention. I figure that my time is valuable and in order to devote the necessary effort and hours into reading any book, it must be engaging and educational. I also have a 12 year old homeschooled daughter and I prefer to preview her reading material, especially when dealing with certain topics. I found this book astounding and tore through it in just a few days. The author has a terrific way with words and I love reading her historical pieces that are told through the eyes of an innocent child. I feel like I learned more about what slavery actually is and what it meant to the people involved. Kimberly Brubaker Bradley delicately handles the issue of the "relations" between Sally Hemmings and Thomas Jefferson in a way that gets the point across but would not raise questions from younger children who have not yet received education on the reproductive process. I can't wait for my daughter to read this, so we can discuss it together. 🙂

Jefferson's Sons was an enthralling and emotional read. An historical accounting of President Jefferson's secret black family told from the point of view of his black children. Although it is historical fiction, it is extremely accurate and very thoroughly researched. Much of the story is based on the letters and journals written by Jefferson's plantation overseer and by the second of his three black sons. Kimberly Brubaker Bradley does not romanticize the relationship. The reader experiences the cruelty of Jefferson towards his black children - never acknowledging his black children living on his estate, the emotional pain his black children suffered watching Jefferson's white children and grandchildren growing up with every advantage while his black children worked in his home as servants, the fear they lived with daily of what will become of them when Jefferson dies. The hypocrisy of Jefferson's political views vs. his personal lifestyle is not lost on Jefferson's black family. The children sometimes hate their father, sometimes feel sorry for him, sometimes try to love him from afar, but mostly, are ambivalent. They know he did great things for the country, but they don't understand why he is considered a great man, especially when his black family is the worst kept secret in the country.

Fab

An excellent book. Again purchased for my (9 yr. old) granddaughter. Full of historical interest, it keeps the reader engaged. Parts are difficult (whipping, selling, or trading of slaves etc.) but are accurate. It is an excellent book, and will most likely spark a variety of questions and discussions. I would also recommend looking into Ms. Bradley's other excellent books.

This book's topic is heavy. I bought for my 7 year old but decided to read it myself and hold back from her due to the violence depicted in the book, and the innuendo about illegitimate relationships, slavery, out of wedlock children, etc... Book is well written and story revealing but it's definitely not for children younger than 12 to read. It will be bringing nightmares I'm afraid, for weak stomachs and young minds.

Having lived in Charlottesville and attended Mr. Jefferson's university, I felt I knew a lot about Jefferson, but this book gave me an entirely need view of him as a man. Throughout the book, I had 2 questions: How much was based on fact and how will it work out? I was dying to get to the end to get the answers, but didn't want to skip over anything. It's not often historical fiction will make you that anxious. I think this is a great book for anyone with an interest in America's history and the role of slavery. Share it with everyone.

The historical details and accuracy combined with interesting characters makes this book a must read for readers who enjoy historical fiction. I read this book out loud to my children (ages 9, 11, 13 and 15). The book was so good that it prompted a family road trip to Monticello to see where the book took place. I highly recommend.

Great book for young and old. Very insightful of a time of slavery.

Good to really understand history.