The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation: Volume II, The Kingdom on the Waves

When Octavian hears that Lord Dunmore, governor of Virginia, will free all slaves who join his "Ethiopian Regiment," the recent runaway gladly signs up. Upon enlisting, Octavian is reunited with his friend Pro Bono. The two comrades, who once shared a master, are thrilled to meet again, but their joy quickly subsides. For weeks on end, Dunmore's regiment sees little to no action. They're starving and stuck offshore in boats where many are horribly ill. Worse yet, it seems Dunmore may not emancipate the "Ethiopians" after all. Includes a summary of Volume I. Author's note. A 2009 Michael L. Printz Honor Book and a Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book.