Contrary to typical early Hollywood portrayals of chattel slavery as it was practiced in the Americas, people of African heritage were not contented in enslavement. The McKissacks' award-winning Christmas in the Big House, Christmas in the Quarters (Scholastic, 1994) demonstrates that historic reality. Rebels against Slavery introduces young readers to some of the brave "men and women, slaves and free blacks, Northerners and Southerners, whites and Native Americans" who knowingly risked their lives in active revolt against slavery. The defiance of individuals such as Toussaint Louverture, Gabriel Prosser, Harriet Tubman, Nat Turner, Denmark Vesey and the rebels on the Amistad are described. Black-and-white archival photos document this carefully researched, compelling account. A chronology and extensive bibliography are included. Honor Book, 1996 CCBC Coretta Scott King Award Discussion: Author (Ages 11-16)

This meticulously researched book pays tribute to heroes such as Cinque, an African captive who was defended before the Supreme Court by John Quincy Adams, Nat Turner and Harriet Tubman. A Coretta Scott King Honor Book and an ALA Best Book for Young Adults.