Chains Theme of Friendship

A feisty slave with Patriot leanings and a mild-mannered elderly Loyalist aren't the most likely candidates for Isabel's best friends in her new life in New York—but they're exactly who she gets in Chains.

In the absence of her parents, and later, Ruth, Curzon and Lady Seymour teach Isabel valuable lessons about loyalty, sacrifice, and kindness, and how to use these qualities once reserved for her family to help others in need. Where Isabel previously might have been intimidated or frightened, she becomes bold and brave on behalf of her friends and learns to return the kindness they show her.

Questions About Friendship

  1. How does Curzon prove his loyalty to Isabel throughout the book?
  2. How does knowing Curzon teach Isabel the importance of standing up for your friends, even if it means taking a risk?
  3. How does Ruth's absence enable Isabel to develop compassion for others?
  4. How would you describe Isabel's friendship with Lady Seymour? Why are they able to relate to each other so well?

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

Without Madam Lockton's decision to sell Ruth, Isabel may not have developed the empathy she feels for Curzon and Lady Seymour.

Curzon and Lady Seymour each represent a way that Isabel overcomes obstacles of colonial society.