A review by thereadingrunnner
The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill

5.0

One of the top historical novels on slavery that I have ever read. I feel in no way can my review possibly convey what a fantastic read this was. The novel follows the story of Meena from her early life in her homeland of Africa, to being stolen by slave traders and shipped to America, to her fleeing to Nova Scotia on a quest for freedom, then back to her homeland and finally to London to assist with the abolitionist movement. It takes place during the time of British control of both America and portions of Canada and is one of the few novels I'm aware of that focuses on how the British had an impact on slavery and how some of the people of Africa assisted in the slave trade. The events of Meena's life are tragic, as it was for all slaves who were treated as property instead of people and stolen from their land and the people they loved. One of the best things Meena had going for her is that early on, she met an overseer who taught her how to read and she made herself learn the language of anyone she encountered. The impact this had on her life and her ability to survive the circumstances she was placed in were profound and is a reminder that knowledge and education is power.
History is not a continuum- it must constantly be revisited to understand society and keep moving forward in a (hopefully) positive direction. What an incredible work by Lawrence Hill. I was so invested in this story it was un-put-downable for me. Highly recommend.