Amari - The 15-year-old protagonist from the Ewe tribe in West Africa. She is captured into slavery, endures the horrific Middle Passage, and is sold to a plantation owner named Derby in South Carolina. Amari is resilient, curious, and determined to survive and eventually escape to freedom.

Polly - A 15-year-old white indentured servant purchased by Derby on the same day as Amari. Despite her initial prejudices, Polly forms an unlikely friendship with Amari as they suffer under Derby's cruelty.

Teenie - The diminutive but larger-than-life slave cook at Derby's plantation. Teenie commands respect from everyone and takes Amari and Polly under her wing, helping them survive plantation life.

Tidbit - Teenie's young son, a bright and mischievous child who befriends Amari and Polly. He helps teach them English.

Mr. Derby - The cruel white plantation owner who purchases Amari. He dehumanizes and abuses his slaves.

Clay Derby - Mr. Derby's equally cruel 16-year-old son who fully believes in the institution of slavery.

Afi - An older enslaved woman who becomes a motherly figure to Amari, helping her survive the traumatic journey across the Atlantic.

Other notable characters include Besa, Amari's fiancé in Africa; Mrs. Derby, the young wife struggling with her role; and the kind Dr. Hoskins who later aids in Amari's escape attempt.

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Dehumanization and Loss of Identity
The novel vividly portrays how Amari, the protagonist, is stripped of her identity, dignity, and humanity through the horrors of being captured, enslaved, and sold. Her village is destroyed, her family murdered, and she is branded and treated as property.

Resilience and Hope
Despite the unimaginable suffering and trauma Amari endures, she holds onto her memories of home and her hope for freedom, exemplifying remarkable resilience in the face of oppression.

Survival and Resistance
Amari's struggle to survive the harsh conditions of the plantation and her eventual escape attempt with Polly represent acts of resistance against the dehumanizing system of slavery.

Interracial Friendship and Solidarity
The friendship that develops between Amari and Polly, an indentured white servant, highlights how oppression can bring people together across racial lines in pursuit of freedom.

Historical Accuracy
Draper conducted extensive research to accurately depict the atrocities of the Middle Passage, slave auctions, plantation life, and the harsh realities enslaved Africans faced, educating readers about this dark chapter of history.

Through Amari's powerful story, Copper Sun shines a light on the inhumane cruelties of slavery while celebrating the indomitable human spirit's ability to persevere against all odds.

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"Copper Sun" has been generally well-received by both critics and readers. The book has garnered attention and praise for its powerful storytelling, historical accuracy, and its exploration of difficult themes related to slavery and resilience.

"Copper Sun" is frequently used in educational settings. Teachers and educators appreciate the book for its ability to engage students in discussions about history, slavery, and human rights. The novel provides a poignant look into the experiences of enslaved Africans, making it a valuable resource for teaching about this period in history.

Readers commonly note the emotional depth of the story. The novel's depiction of the brutal realities of slavery, combined with moments of hope and resilience, leaves a lasting impact on many who read it.

Sharon Draper's writing style is praised for being accessible yet powerful. Her ability to write for a young adult audience without compromising on the gravity of the subject matter is frequently noted as a strength of the book.

Overall, "Copper Sun" is perceived as a significant and impactful work that effectively combines historical fiction with powerful storytelling. It continues to be a relevant and respected book in both literary and educational circles.