Watch and Wait; or, The Young Fugitives

"Watch and Wait; or, The Young Fugitives" by Oliver Optic is an adventure story set before the Civil War, following the lives of young enslaved people yearning for freedom. The story begins on Colonel Baylie Raybone's plantation, seemingly beautiful but filled with the harsh realities of slavery, where characters such as Dandy and Lily are introduced, each dreaming of liberation. Fueled by instances of cruelty and injustice, especially after Dandy experiences harsh treatment, the young protagonists embark on a risky escape, navigating perilous situations and moral dilemmas associated with their quest for liberty. This book explores the themes of courage, the strength of human spirit, and the burning desire for equality and a better life, all while highlighting the brutal conditions of the time.