Unbound

Grace's world shifts dramatically when she's summoned from the slave quarters to serve in the master's house, where the cruelty she witnesses awakens a fierce sense of justice that refuses to stay silent. When her defiant words trigger dangerous consequences, Grace and her family must flee into the treacherous Great Dismal Swamp, joining a hidden community of runaways who have carved out a precarious existence in the wilderness. Burg crafts this historical novel in verse around a little-known chapter of American slavery, exploring themes of courage, family bonds, and the unbreakable human desire for freedom.

Bahni Turpin's masterful narration elevates this powerful story through her nuanced vocal performance that captures Grace's evolving voice with remarkable authenticity. Turpin navigates the verse format with exceptional skill, allowing the rhythm and cadence of Burg's poetry to breathe naturally while maintaining narrative momentum. Her ability to convey both the intimate emotions of a young girl coming of age and the broader historical weight of the story creates an immersive listening experience. The poetry format translates beautifully to audio, with Turpin's pacing enhancing the emotional impact of each carefully chosen word.