"[A] powerful examination of five enslaved individuals and their presidential owners. . . . In a thoroughly researched and reasoned account, Davis exposes the intricacies of this impossibly tangled web." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"The premise of this work is unique, and Davis has a very readable storytelling style. . . . An important and timely corrective." —Kirkus Reviews

"By exploring the humanity of people held in bondage by early American presidents, Kenneth C. Davis once again turns American mythology into history. Read the book and be grateful." —Marcus Rediker, author of The Slave Ship: A Human History

“The young woman was enslaved, but also privileged. She was part of the household of the nation's first president. This powerful book tells her story, and others, which are surprising and have been unknown to most of us. They will give you insights into our American heritage that you may not have considered before. I hope In the Shadow of Liberty will be widely read. It is important and timely." —Joy Hakim, author of A History of US (Oxford University Press)

"This well-researched book offers a chronological history of slavery in America and features five enslaved people and the four U.S. presidents who owned them.... A valuable, broad perspective on slavery." —Booklist, starred review

"Compulsively readable. . . . A must-have selection." —School Library Journal, starred review

"Davis’s solid research. . . accessible prose, and determination to make these stories known give young readers an important alternative to textbook representations of colonial life." —The Horn Book

"Davis' newest book is fascinating." —Kids' Home Library