Here is the story of Henrietta Wood, who was enslaved twice—but who demanded justice and was awarded the largest reparations ever granted for enslavement. This nonfiction book for ages 9–12 puts a human face on the current issue of reparations.
Henrietta Wood was born enslaved. As a teen she was ripped from her family and sold. Years later, a miracle happened, and she was given freedom papers. But Henrietta’s freedom was short-lived. She was tricked back into enslavement and sent to a Mississippi cotton plantation.
On June 19, 1865—Juneteenth—she was emancipated. Finally free for good, Henrietta Wood sued the man who had kidnapped her back into enslavement—and she won! Henrietta was one of the few people in United States history to ever receive a reparation payment for slavery.
Twice Enslaved is a true story of cruelty, resilience, and ultimately triumph, told lyrically for middle-grade readers by Selene Castrovilla and illustrated in full color by artist Erin K. Robinson.
Book Details
Format:
Hardcover
Price:
25.99 CAD / 19.99 USD
Published: 02/03/2026
ISBN: 9781662680748
Imprint:
Calkins Creek
Page Count: 80
Trim Size: 6 x 9
Grades:
Grades 4-7
Ages:
9-12 years
"Told through a series of poems, this illustrated biography sheds light on a little-known historical figure, pairing powerful verse with striking illustrations to underline the humanity of those who lived through the atrocities of slavery and their ability to hope and fight for a better life.”—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"In this concise biography rendered via narrative poetry, Castrovilla (Freedom’s Cost) centers Henrietta Wood (1818–1912), a Black woman who—following her emancipation, abduction, and re-enslavement—obtained the largest restitution payment ever given to a formerly enslaved person in the United States... Evocative illustrations by Robinson (Ayo’s Adventure) capture pivotal moments throughout the subject’s life, while rhythmic language describes the physical abuse Wood suffered during her enslavement."—Publishers Weekly
“Castrovilla’s efficient lines of verse make for a digestible, fast-paced account, while Robinson’s full color art spreads between chapters add emotion and depth to this layered rendering of a woman who endured injustice after injustice. Though readers will easily read this tale in a single sitting, its lessons will linger. A testament to the resilience of the human spirit.”—Kirkus Reviews
"... a true story of cruelty, resilience, and ultimately triumph."—Shelf Awareness
"Wood’s story is told in free verse that moves briskly, smoothly communicating historical fact, social context, physical suffering, and emotional turmoil, and deftly incorporating direct quotes from court testimony and newspaper interviews. The text also conveys Wood’s terror and lack of speaking up in her own defense, highlighting the rigged political and justice systems. Supported by beautiful, nuanced digital illustrations and substantial back matter, this fitting tribute recognizes courage in the face of an unjust system."—Booklist
