It's 1834 in Barbados, when Rachel, age 40, learns from her plantation owner that slavery has ended. But emancipation has a catch. Rachel and the other former slaves have to stay workers at the plantation as apprentices for another six years. So much for freedom. Rachel, however, has her own plan. She escapes with the focus on finding her five surviving children who had been sold to new slaveowners years before. Through sheer determination and the kindness of others, Rachel heads to Bridgetown, Barbados, then to British Guiana and finally Trinidad. The fates of her grown children are revealed along this emotional rollercoaster of a journey which includes traveling along rivers and the singing of songs of hope.
River Sing Me Home is author Eleanor Shearer's impressive debut. Her family history and racial identity inspired her to write this powerful book. It is a moving story that educates on the plight of slaves in the Caribbean and the period following emancipation. The descriptions of the settings are vivid. Rachel is joined by a group of strong characters enhancing this impactful and emotional story about a mother's love.
Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Historical Fiction.
Publication Date: January 31, 2023.
Please "like" this post if River Sing Me Home sounds like a book you might like to read. I'd love to know. Scroll below the photo and click on the red outlined heart on the lower right-hand side of the page. Comments can also be left below.
Great review! My interest was piqued by this book but, since I'm so far behind, I didn't request it.
Very nice review.
I've heard this was a good book.
Thanks for sharing and have a great week!