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Washington Black

The Booker-shortlisted International Bestseller
By Esi Edugyan
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Washington Black by Esi Edugyan is a gripping tale following an eleven-year-old slave named Washington Black, who embarks on an extraordinary journey. Set in the early 19th century, his adventures take him from the brutal cane fields of a Barbados plantation to unimaginable places, sparked by his bond with an idealistic inventor. The novel explores themes of freedom, identity, and belonging in a deeply moving narrative.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're captivated by stories of adventure and exploration, blended with rich historical context. It delves into the journey of an eleven-year-old boy who escapes slavery and encounters remarkable transformations, all while exploring themes of freedom, identity, and friendship. This compelling narrative weaves in elements of science and discovery, making it an inspiring tale of resilience and self-discovery.

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Escape is only the beginning ... Inspired by a true story, Washington Black is an extraordinary tale of a world destroyed and made whole again.

Escape is only the beginning

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2018

Winner of the Giller Prize

Finalist for the Carnegie Medal and the Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize

New York Times Top Ten Book of the Year 2018

'Nothing short of a masterpiece.' - Attica Locke

'Strong, beautiful and beguiling.' - Observer

'Destined to become a future classic ... that rare book that should appeal to every kind of reader.' - Guardian

When two English brothers take the helm of a Barbados sugar plantation, Washington Black - an eleven-year-old field slave - finds himself selected as personal servant to one of them. The eccentric Christopher 'Titch' Wilde is a naturalist, explorer, scientist, inventor, and abolitionist, whose single-minded pursuit of the perfect aerial machine mystifies all around him.

Titch's idealistic plans are soon shattered and Washington finds himself in mortal danger. They escape together, but then Titch disappears and Washington must make his way alone, following the promise of freedom further than he ever dreamed possible.

Inspired by a true story, Washington Black is an extraordinary tale of a world destroyed and made whole again.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Washington Black by Esi Edugyan receives praise for its lush and gripping narrative, combining an adventure story reminiscent of Jules Verne with a profound exploration of themes like freedom and the complexities of the human condition. The novel is noted for its evocative language, vivid characters, and the seamless blend of historical and poignant storytelling. Critics highlight its ability to shine a light on both the past and present, offering a fresh take on the antebellum novel while also delivering a compelling and urgent narrative.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781846689604

Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 April 2019

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Serpent's Tail

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 350g

Pages: 432

Collections

Esi Edugyan Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction

About the Author

Esi Edugyan's Washington Black has been shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2018 and The Scotiabank Giller Prize 2018. Her previous novel, Half Blood Blues won the Scotiabank Giller Prize and was a finalist for the Man Booker Prize, the Governor-General's Literary Award, the Rogers Writers' Trust Prize, and the Orange Prize. She lives in Victoria, British Columbia

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