Edmonia: A Novel of a Boundary-Breaking American Sculptress

Summary

In a voice as passionate and assured as its subject, this immersive historical novel, set in the years surrounding the Civil War, tells the intriguing story of pioneering Black and Native American sculptor Edmonia Lewis—headstrong, unconventional, and never far from scandal and controversy …

“I plan to be a sculptor, to memorialize forever the great men and women of my race, and those who have fought for our cause.”

At the age of 12, orphaned, precocious Wildfire seems fated to a life of toil selling her handmade crafts to Niagara Falls tourists alongside her Ojibwe aunts. But Wildfire’s older brother, Samuel, has been making other plans for his gifted sibling. Soon, she is set on a new trajectory—and with it comes her new name, Edmonia.

Privately nurturing artistic ambitions, Edmonia advances through an abolitionist’s prep school in New York, and later lands at Oberlin College. But at Oberlin lies a devastating trap: Edmonia is accused of poisoning, nearly fatally, her two roommates, with tainted wine.

What ensues is a headline-making trial, a vicious attack by a white mob—and a bold journey that will lead Edmonia from a crucial introduction in Boston to a vibrant community of celebrated expatriate women artists in Rome. Along the way she encounters distinguished figures such as Frederick Douglass and President Ulysses S. Grant.

Still, Edmonia’s success is plagued by stinging critiques, potent racism, and haunting self-doubt. She must decide, too, whether to continue her romantic entanglements, or devote herself to bringing to life her visions of beauty and justice—and hopefully, forge her place in a rapidly changing world.

“This is one of the most gripping stories I’ve read in years. … Edmonia’s courage and determination are an inspiration. Brianne Baker is a remarkable storyteller!”—Mary Monroe, New York Times bestselling author