My thoughts are as such: the story is long winded and sometimes confusing – YET it is compelling and thought provoking. The story stays with you, like you can’t shut it off, can’t quiet your mind.
The main character, Hiram Walker, is a slave. Hiram was born a “task slave” and in his mind he will always be one- even in freedom. He strives to be free and make his own way in the world while helping others achieve the same. He meets “Harriet” along the way and begins a journey of helping free others through the underground railroad. He endures many trials and tribulations throughout his journey- which make the story interesting. He has “gifts” that prove valuable- he is smart and he has the ability to step outside a situation and see beyond it. He is a multidimensional character- often times quiet and self reflective. As a reader, Hiram immediately wins your heart and you find yourself rooting for him as he continues to help others gain their freedom.
This is a rich story that weaves through one of the most wretched times of our American history. A history no one is proud of, and yet a story that we must learn from and remember so this history never repeats itself. To imagine people treated like animals is abhorrent, Coates does not shy away from revealing the horrors of slavery. To imagine your own children taken from you and sold, to imagine your day is not your own to plan, and to imagine your daughters subject to rape is incomprehensible.
The only complaint I have with the novel is the mystical element. I was confused by it and I thought it added no value to the story. After reading other reviews of this book, I find I am not alone. Although, it is not such a deterrent that I would not suggest reading the book.
Days later, I was watching the Democratic debates and the subject of Reparations came up. Almost everyone on the debate stage agreed that Reparations was a good idea. I don’t know if any amount of money would help alleviate the pain and suffering caused to the slaves and their families and I suspect that too much time has passed. Property should have been given after the slaves were freed and monetary damages awarded at that time. As far as today, a solid “We are so damn sorry” for what our ancestors did to your ancestors should be a start.
Karen