This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

A personal and intimate view of slavery, 29 Oct 2008
In the words of a born slave, who after a decade-long struggle achieves freedom, written to women of her own time, Linda Brent writes of her life in slavery and her long plight towards freedom.

Her experiences rise from the page and are now grounded in my memory. There are experiences of ruthless masters and mistresses, but also of family and friends, deep trust and helpfulness.

The strength of this autobiography is the author's use of her own words, shaped my time, culture, and the wish to protect certain parties.

I learned from this book, which gives a personal and intimate view at slavery and The United States circa 1860. Recommendable.

Louise.

Gripping and realistic, 28 May 1999
I've read this book a few times over the years. The first being for a college course. It stayed with me then as it did each and every time I've read it. I highly recommend this novel as it is so frighteningly realistic and poignant. I have found myself many times recommending this novel to friends and family. It is rich in culture, history and plot. I highly recommend it.

A frustrating story about a slave's 9 year escape to freedom, 03 Dec 1998
I had to read this book for school, and I was impressed with some of it. The tone was realistic and believable, and the characters were interesting. But the plot was slow, the book is 200 pages long, and the main character's passive nature makes you want to scream. I don't recommend this book for free reading, but as a slave narrative it meets it's purpose of telling the public about the horrors of slavery. I give it three stars.

A Lesson From the Heart, 20 Sep 1998
It took me a few days to track down this book, but thankfully, Amazom.Com had it, and was able to send it to me within a few days. I picked it up, expecting to be a long, dry read as most of the fiction (not just slave narratives, mind you) has a tendency to take on such characteristics. Just the style of the period, I suppose.

Boy, was I surprised. Harriet Jacobs, writing under a pseudonym, published this book in 1861 after spending many, many years in hiding from her "master," Dr. Charles Flint, a lecherous, sexually-aggressive man determined to break her spirit. Seven years in a cramped, ten-by-seven foot attic crawlspace, however, did little to crush this woman, for she not only managed to escape North Carolina herself, but her children and uncle escaped as well. Her grandmother, freed when she was fifty years old upon the death of her mistress, died during Jacobs' exile in Boston.

What I most enjoyed about this text was its style and frankness with the material. Written as a part slave narrative, part journal, and part epistle to the reader, Incidents tells a remarkable tale of the callousness of white men to slaves, who were deemed subhuman and ignorant. Harriet Jacobs demonstrates an enormous capacity for intelligence through her careful, brutally honest memoirs. Although the names of friends, family, and enemies were changed, perhaps to protect the innocent, perhaps to protect the guilty, there is no doubt in my mind that the horrors Jacobs describes occurred, and while my family arrived in America at the early part of this century, I still experienced a great embarassment and shame. Not because I had anything to do with those horrid crimes. No... I feel shame because I know it still continues today, and it saddens my heart to know it will probably continue tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Harriet Jacobs.

This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

A personal and intimate view of slavery, 29 Oct 2008
In the words of a born slave, who after a decade-long struggle achieves freedom, written to women of her own time, Linda Brent writes of her life in slavery and her long plight towards freedom.

Her experiences rise from the page and are now grounded in my memory. There are experiences of ruthless masters and mistresses, but also of family and friends, deep trust and helpfulness.

The strength of this autobiography is the author's use of her own words, shaped my time, culture, and the wish to protect certain parties.

I learned from this book, which gives a personal and intimate view at slavery and The United States circa 1860. Recommendable.

Louise.

Gripping and realistic, 28 May 1999
I've read this book a few times over the years. The first being for a college course. It stayed with me then as it did each and every time I've read it. I highly recommend this novel as it is so frighteningly realistic and poignant. I have found myself many times recommending this novel to friends and family. It is rich in culture, history and plot. I highly recommend it.

A frustrating story about a slave's 9 year escape to freedom, 03 Dec 1998
I had to read this book for school, and I was impressed with some of it. The tone was realistic and believable, and the characters were interesting. But the plot was slow, the book is 200 pages long, and the main character's passive nature makes you want to scream. I don't recommend this book for free reading, but as a slave narrative it meets it's purpose of telling the public about the horrors of slavery. I give it three stars.

A Lesson From the Heart, 20 Sep 1998
It took me a few days to track down this book, but thankfully, Amazom.Com had it, and was able to send it to me within a few days. I picked it up, expecting to be a long, dry read as most of the fiction (not just slave narratives, mind you) has a tendency to take on such characteristics. Just the style of the period, I suppose.

Boy, was I surprised. Harriet Jacobs, writing under a pseudonym, published this book in 1861 after spending many, many years in hiding from her "master," Dr. Charles Flint, a lecherous, sexually-aggressive man determined to break her spirit. Seven years in a cramped, ten-by-seven foot attic crawlspace, however, did little to crush this woman, for she not only managed to escape North Carolina herself, but her children and uncle escaped as well. Her grandmother, freed when she was fifty years old upon the death of her mistress, died during Jacobs' exile in Boston.

What I most enjoyed about this text was its style and frankness with the material. Written as a part slave narrative, part journal, and part epistle to the reader, Incidents tells a remarkable tale of the callousness of white men to slaves, who were deemed subhuman and ignorant. Harriet Jacobs demonstrates an enormous capacity for intelligence through her careful, brutally honest memoirs. Although the names of friends, family, and enemies were changed, perhaps to protect the innocent, perhaps to protect the guilty, there is no doubt in my mind that the horrors Jacobs describes occurred, and while my family arrived in America at the early part of this century, I still experienced a great embarassment and shame. Not because I had anything to do with those horrid crimes. No... I feel shame because I know it still continues today, and it saddens my heart to know it will probably continue tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Harriet Jacobs.

Haunting, 21 Sep 2008
The most tragic, haunting book ive ever read. Completed it in a day. Reached into my soul and almost tore it out. This womans story is incredible. Her fight for survival and for life.
How there are still people in the world who stoop to such depravity is beyone me.
For a truly emotional tale, it does not get any better than this.

haunting eyes, 11 Sep 2008
I read Sold afew years ago and i could not get it out of my head.I cried when i read it.I've since read Zana's second book and i'm still intrigued what happend to Nadia.You read the book and you want to go Yemen yourself and rescue her.The poor soul.You do not think it happens in this day of age.I've now got "Without Mercy",the mothers story of events.I do not want to glorify a wrong situation but the courage of Nadia to stick by her children and the families determination to get her home.A very sad story which i hope will never be repeated.

couldn't put it down, 06 May 2008
The book is very well written. I read the whole thing in one day, i felt like i was there living the nightmare with Nadia and Zana and my heart completly went out to both of them.
A true insight and eye opener to modern day slavery a book that will have you wanting to know more ...

Couldn't put this book down,,,,,,, gripping read, 31 Mar 2008
I read this book within two days, I just couldn't put it down and when I had to I did so rather grudgingly!

It is a true story, and I remember the publicity when it actually happened. Its a shocking story and I find it so hard to believe that women are still living in this way, it made me so glad to be British living in this century.

One of the reviewers commented on the poor writing but I actually thought it was very cleverly written. It was coloquial but I think that may have been the authors intention, it gave the impression that you were sitting with Zana, actually hearing her tell her story.

This book comes highly recommended!

This book had me sold., 10 Mar 2007
Zana Muhsen and her sister Nadia were thrilled when they learned that their father had paid for them to go on the trip of a life time. Faraway from their native Birmingham, they'd have two blissfull weeks of Sea, sand, and spectacular views in their fathers yemeni homeland. Due to legal discrepancies concerning the then 14 year old Nadia, Zana, 15 went on ahead of her little sister. Expecting blissful views, bare-back dessert camel rides and tropical seas - what she got was the shock of her life. On arriving in the desolate far away land Zana discovered to her horror that her father had literally sold herself and her sister into marriage and that, unable to warn her sister of her impending doom, they were now helplessly trapped! They suffered rape, several beatings and the terrifying ordeal of Child Birth in the raw with no pain relief or hospital care.

It took eight long torturous years for Zana to escape her life of hell, but when she touched back down on to English soil the world was desperate to hear her story. An now here it is, in her own words. This is a remarkable true story of one families fight against red tape, racism and beaurocracy. It is a story that left nations divided, a family torn apart and two cultures to clash head long into each other.

Sadly, though Zana finally made it home, her story does not have a happy ending. Sadly, Nadia did not manage to escape, and Zana was forced to leave her baby behind. (Her story is continued in 'A Promise To Nadia')

This story is utterly unbelievable, how one person can be so callous and unappologetic as their father, selling his own flesh and blood into a live of slavery. But while this book is painful and tremendously tear-jerking to read it make you appreciate how lucky you are to live in a civilization where you have free-will. It really shows you the other side of life, the power of hope, love and belief and above all the strength of the human spirit.

This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

A personal and intimate view of slavery, 29 Oct 2008
In the words of a born slave, who after a decade-long struggle achieves freedom, written to women of her own time, Linda Brent writes of her life in slavery and her long plight towards freedom.

Her experiences rise from the page and are now grounded in my memory. There are experiences of ruthless masters and mistresses, but also of family and friends, deep trust and helpfulness.

The strength of this autobiography is the author's use of her own words, shaped my time, culture, and the wish to protect certain parties.

I learned from this book, which gives a personal and intimate view at slavery and The United States circa 1860. Recommendable.

Louise.

Gripping and realistic, 28 May 1999
I've read this book a few times over the years. The first being for a college course. It stayed with me then as it did each and every time I've read it. I highly recommend this novel as it is so frighteningly realistic and poignant. I have found myself many times recommending this novel to friends and family. It is rich in culture, history and plot. I highly recommend it.

A frustrating story about a slave's 9 year escape to freedom, 03 Dec 1998
I had to read this book for school, and I was impressed with some of it. The tone was realistic and believable, and the characters were interesting. But the plot was slow, the book is 200 pages long, and the main character's passive nature makes you want to scream. I don't recommend this book for free reading, but as a slave narrative it meets it's purpose of telling the public about the horrors of slavery. I give it three stars.

A Lesson From the Heart, 20 Sep 1998
It took me a few days to track down this book, but thankfully, Amazom.Com had it, and was able to send it to me within a few days. I picked it up, expecting to be a long, dry read as most of the fiction (not just slave narratives, mind you) has a tendency to take on such characteristics. Just the style of the period, I suppose.

Boy, was I surprised. Harriet Jacobs, writing under a pseudonym, published this book in 1861 after spending many, many years in hiding from her "master," Dr. Charles Flint, a lecherous, sexually-aggressive man determined to break her spirit. Seven years in a cramped, ten-by-seven foot attic crawlspace, however, did little to crush this woman, for she not only managed to escape North Carolina herself, but her children and uncle escaped as well. Her grandmother, freed when she was fifty years old upon the death of her mistress, died during Jacobs' exile in Boston.

What I most enjoyed about this text was its style and frankness with the material. Written as a part slave narrative, part journal, and part epistle to the reader, Incidents tells a remarkable tale of the callousness of white men to slaves, who were deemed subhuman and ignorant. Harriet Jacobs demonstrates an enormous capacity for intelligence through her careful, brutally honest memoirs. Although the names of friends, family, and enemies were changed, perhaps to protect the innocent, perhaps to protect the guilty, there is no doubt in my mind that the horrors Jacobs describes occurred, and while my family arrived in America at the early part of this century, I still experienced a great embarassment and shame. Not because I had anything to do with those horrid crimes. No... I feel shame because I know it still continues today, and it saddens my heart to know it will probably continue tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Harriet Jacobs.

Haunting, 21 Sep 2008
The most tragic, haunting book ive ever read. Completed it in a day. Reached into my soul and almost tore it out. This womans story is incredible. Her fight for survival and for life.
How there are still people in the world who stoop to such depravity is beyone me.
For a truly emotional tale, it does not get any better than this.

haunting eyes, 11 Sep 2008
I read Sold afew years ago and i could not get it out of my head.I cried when i read it.I've since read Zana's second book and i'm still intrigued what happend to Nadia.You read the book and you want to go Yemen yourself and rescue her.The poor soul.You do not think it happens in this day of age.I've now got "Without Mercy",the mothers story of events.I do not want to glorify a wrong situation but the courage of Nadia to stick by her children and the families determination to get her home.A very sad story which i hope will never be repeated.

couldn't put it down, 06 May 2008
The book is very well written. I read the whole thing in one day, i felt like i was there living the nightmare with Nadia and Zana and my heart completly went out to both of them.
A true insight and eye opener to modern day slavery a book that will have you wanting to know more ...

Couldn't put this book down,,,,,,, gripping read, 31 Mar 2008
I read this book within two days, I just couldn't put it down and when I had to I did so rather grudgingly!

It is a true story, and I remember the publicity when it actually happened. Its a shocking story and I find it so hard to believe that women are still living in this way, it made me so glad to be British living in this century.

One of the reviewers commented on the poor writing but I actually thought it was very cleverly written. It was coloquial but I think that may have been the authors intention, it gave the impression that you were sitting with Zana, actually hearing her tell her story.

This book comes highly recommended!

This book had me sold., 10 Mar 2007
Zana Muhsen and her sister Nadia were thrilled when they learned that their father had paid for them to go on the trip of a life time. Faraway from their native Birmingham, they'd have two blissfull weeks of Sea, sand, and spectacular views in their fathers yemeni homeland. Due to legal discrepancies concerning the then 14 year old Nadia, Zana, 15 went on ahead of her little sister. Expecting blissful views, bare-back dessert camel rides and tropical seas - what she got was the shock of her life. On arriving in the desolate far away land Zana discovered to her horror that her father had literally sold herself and her sister into marriage and that, unable to warn her sister of her impending doom, they were now helplessly trapped! They suffered rape, several beatings and the terrifying ordeal of Child Birth in the raw with no pain relief or hospital care.

It took eight long torturous years for Zana to escape her life of hell, but when she touched back down on to English soil the world was desperate to hear her story. An now here it is, in her own words. This is a remarkable true story of one families fight against red tape, racism and beaurocracy. It is a story that left nations divided, a family torn apart and two cultures to clash head long into each other.

Sadly, though Zana finally made it home, her story does not have a happy ending. Sadly, Nadia did not manage to escape, and Zana was forced to leave her baby behind. (Her story is continued in 'A Promise To Nadia')

This story is utterly unbelievable, how one person can be so callous and unappologetic as their father, selling his own flesh and blood into a live of slavery. But while this book is painful and tremendously tear-jerking to read it make you appreciate how lucky you are to live in a civilization where you have free-will. It really shows you the other side of life, the power of hope, love and belief and above all the strength of the human spirit.



Wonderful biography of a great, great man, 22 Sep 2008
Some time ago I heard William Hague lecture on Wilberforce. It was a pleasure to hear such a fine speaker so on top of his subject. The lecture lasted an hour but could have gone on for three as far as I was concerned, it was so interesting. The same is true of the book. It is written by a political enthusiast about a fellow politician, in my mind one of the greatest politicians we have ever had. He laid aside a beckoning life of luxury and ease to devote himself to the service of people. He inherited a fortune but spent most of it helping people less fortunate than himself.
Remembered for his fight against the slave trade, Wilberforce was also the founder of over 100 charities. A deeply committed Christian, he also worked tirelessly to reform the manners of England. True, he was not perfect and made mistakes, but then which of us hasn't? He was also a man of his time but although we might not agree with some of his conclusions Hague takes us through the mental agony Wilberforce put his conscience through before he made them.
The book is meticulously researched and brilliantly written. One of the best biographies I have ever read, and I've read quite a few. Strongly recommended!

Very Good, 04 Nov 2007
William Wilberforce by William Hauge is a very good book about one of the leaders of the campaign to abolish slavery. It has a clear narrative structure and is informative without being overcomplicated. It is all in all a very good book about a man who acquired a deep evangelical faith (how Hauge deals and explains this is one of the best pieces of the work) which inspired him to help to rid the world of slavery.

A beacon of light, 17 Aug 2007
"A beacon of light which the passing of two centuries has scarcely dimmed". This is Hague's concluding assessment of Wilberforce. This fine biography should keep that light blazing. I think it will probably be the definitive biography of the great abolitionist for quite some time to come. Hague writes well and keeps one's attention throughout a long book. He is masterful at setting the historical scene. No doubt his previous biography of Wilberforce's friend Pitt was a great help in researching the period. One is given a real feel for a very different world where only men of means could afford to enter politics for getting elected, except to a rotten borough, could mean huge expense. It was a time when party allegiance was not so well developed and Wilberforce maintained his independence as a member of parliament for Yorkshire. He was a friend of Pitt but opposed him over the war with France as he opposed a later government over Queen Caroline. Hague does not fall into the trap of judging an historic figure by more modern criteria. Contemporary critics of Wilberforce disliked his social conservatism. His radicalism was aimed at stopping an evil trade not promoting cause of the poor close to home.Hague explains it. Wilberforce would give no support to those who would be socially disruptive and those applauding the French Revolution. His detestation of what had happened in France, Hague rightly identifies as Wilberforce's opposition to all things against religion.



One expects Hague to be good on the politics of Wilberforce's life but I was pleasantly surprised by his understanding of his subject's Evangelical faith. Christian faith we know transformed Wilberforce from a pleasure seeking young man into an ardent reformer. It was the motivation in all his subsequent life. As well as abolition it also moved him to seek the opening of India to Christian missions. Hague seems to have a sympathetic understanding of Wilberforce's Christianity as well as a great appreciation of his political achievements. here was an MP who was most diligent in his duties though he never held an office of state. There is also admiration for the personal character of his subject. He was a man who made friends, was hugely charitable and a loving husband and father. Here was a notable orator and a man of wit, welcome at the tables of the great and the good. His character was indeed that of a joyful Christian as Piper writes in his short biography. He died impoverished by his own personal charity and the foolishness of his eldest son. He declined ennoblement and wanted a quiet burial place but was laid to rest in Westminster Abbey for his contemporaries judged him to be great as well as good.


Wilberforce, 09 Aug 2007
William Hague follows up his debut biography of Pitt the Younger with Pitt's best friend and tireless slave-trade campaigner. It is the perfect sophomore effort. Similar era; one of the closest friendships in politics, yet, some great differences between the two great men. Pitt, the son of the great Chatham; by no means wealthy; eager for ministerial power. Wilberforce: from a very wealthy mercantile background; advocating the abolition of the slave-trade as an `Independent' constituent for Yorkshire.

I too disagree with a previous reviewer who seems to criticise Hague's book on his own personal dislike of Wilberforce, not on the merits of the book itself. I have to say that Hague paints a very fair and unbiased account of Wilberforce. Wilberforce considered himself an `Independent', not a Tory. He could be rightly called one of `Pitt's friends' but famously turned against Pitt in opposition to the Revolutionary War; he managed to remain on friendly terms with Fox and Grenville as a matter of fact. Hague does point to certain faults: his licentious youth, his frequent inability to commit to one side of an argument; his complete naivety on military affairs. The biography as a whole however is favourable to what emerges as a brilliant man; Hague quite rightly makes great use of contemporary descriptions of Wilberforce and offers a succinct argument for his policies.

For anyone who believes politics are boring, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Hague's description of the various machinations building up to the 1807 act is about as dramatic and exiting as it gets. Those were certainly exiting times in politics: two Revolution and two subsequent wars; Irish Union; reform; the trial of Warren Hastings; Catholic emancipation; the slave-trade etc.. Some of the greatest orators of all time graced the Commons' floor: Pitt, Burke, Fox, Sheridan and of course Wilberforce. Later Canning and Castlereagh would be added to that long list of luminaries. It puts our own politics to shame if truth be told.

Hague occasionally juxtaposes his own modern political world with the politics of that era yet never goes overboard while doing it. He instead draws out the eccentricities and bustle of the 18thc election; the lack of a party machine; the greater reliance on debate etc.. It frequently is reminiscent of an early satirical scene in A Pickwick Papers.

Christian Evangelicalism of course was hugely important to Wilberforce. In fairness he never imposed his Christianity though he sometimes despaired of Pitt's relevant lack of religion. Instead he offered guidance to any of his friends so inclined. It's significant that once he went through his dramatic conversion he still remained something of a social animal (despite his best efforts). Wilberforce has an amazing knack of remaining friends with rivals; contemporaries describe him as humorous, amiable and the soul of the party. He saw his own religion as enlightened, benevolent and uplifting; in stark contrast to Methodism which influenced him. Wilberforce never withdrew from life, his own Christianity reinvigorated it.

Hague's book is wonderfully presented with numerous plates; particularly brilliant are the many (nothing less than scathing will do) Gillray sketches. His research and use of sources is impeccable; his prose informative and accessible. All in all, Hague is turning into the new-Roy Jenkins. I like the fact that he seems to specialise in a era; an era I am very interested in as it happens. How about a Charles James Fox book William?

Fascinating history by an impressive historian!, 30 Jul 2007
I disagree fundamentally with another reviewer who seems to base his opinion of William Hague's book and his qualities as an historian on his (the reviewer's) personal distaste for the author's latest subject, William Wilberforce, the man himself and his doings.

This, in my opinion, is unfair, for, whilst I, too, did not 'take to' Wilberforce and would probably have found him to be an insufferable prig - the Paddy Ashdown of his day - and an overly-religious zealot, I admire Hague's impressive research and his excellent writing and I also seem to detect in the author a previously unnoticed tendency to liberalism. I was in the hall when William Hague made his famous Conservative Party Conference speech at the age of sixteen and he showed then no tendency to liberalism, excepting the economic variety.

I now suppose that he has seen in Pitt and Wilberforce (both the subjects of triumphant tomes from this historian) that, from promising youth, there can emerge powerful and lasting political personalities who were, in their day, though each conservative and/or Conservative in their respective ways, far ahead of their contemporaries in both ability and thinking. Hague himself showed promise in youth and has gained much with more years. (Will he ever be another Pitt or a replacement Wilberforce, though?).

Now, as to why Hague is apparently so sympathetic to Wilberforce is another matter. It is obviously received wisdom today that Wilberforce was right in many matters, especially his successful campaigning against the slave trade and slavery itself, but what I found surprising in Hague's biography was the strength of the case and the powerful reasoning against Wilberforce's attitudes to the slave trade and slavery. And when one sees today the situations in Haiti and Sierra Leone, both of which obtained Wilberforce's ardent support in their earliest years of 'independence,' it is scarcely surprising that Hague's hero's contemporaries and his many opponents should have envisaged the mayhem and disorder that actually occurred and has lasted.

I will end on a more generous note. The fine portrait of Wilberforce by George Richmond shows a man whom I would have been pleased to meet - for a short while, at least - despite his alleged canting hypocrisy. It oozes a handsome decency and is a fine inclusion - amongst many others - in a fine book. Well done, young William!

This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

A personal and intimate view of slavery, 29 Oct 2008
In the words of a born slave, who after a decade-long struggle achieves freedom, written to women of her own time, Linda Brent writes of her life in slavery and her long plight towards freedom.

Her experiences rise from the page and are now grounded in my memory. There are experiences of ruthless masters and mistresses, but also of family and friends, deep trust and helpfulness.

The strength of this autobiography is the author's use of her own words, shaped my time, culture, and the wish to protect certain parties.

I learned from this book, which gives a personal and intimate view at slavery and The United States circa 1860. Recommendable.

Louise.

Gripping and realistic, 28 May 1999
I've read this book a few times over the years. The first being for a college course. It stayed with me then as it did each and every time I've read it. I highly recommend this novel as it is so frighteningly realistic and poignant. I have found myself many times recommending this novel to friends and family. It is rich in culture, history and plot. I highly recommend it.

A frustrating story about a slave's 9 year escape to freedom, 03 Dec 1998
I had to read this book for school, and I was impressed with some of it. The tone was realistic and believable, and the characters were interesting. But the plot was slow, the book is 200 pages long, and the main character's passive nature makes you want to scream. I don't recommend this book for free reading, but as a slave narrative it meets it's purpose of telling the public about the horrors of slavery. I give it three stars.

A Lesson From the Heart, 20 Sep 1998
It took me a few days to track down this book, but thankfully, Amazom.Com had it, and was able to send it to me within a few days. I picked it up, expecting to be a long, dry read as most of the fiction (not just slave narratives, mind you) has a tendency to take on such characteristics. Just the style of the period, I suppose.

Boy, was I surprised. Harriet Jacobs, writing under a pseudonym, published this book in 1861 after spending many, many years in hiding from her "master," Dr. Charles Flint, a lecherous, sexually-aggressive man determined to break her spirit. Seven years in a cramped, ten-by-seven foot attic crawlspace, however, did little to crush this woman, for she not only managed to escape North Carolina herself, but her children and uncle escaped as well. Her grandmother, freed when she was fifty years old upon the death of her mistress, died during Jacobs' exile in Boston.

What I most enjoyed about this text was its style and frankness with the material. Written as a part slave narrative, part journal, and part epistle to the reader, Incidents tells a remarkable tale of the callousness of white men to slaves, who were deemed subhuman and ignorant. Harriet Jacobs demonstrates an enormous capacity for intelligence through her careful, brutally honest memoirs. Although the names of friends, family, and enemies were changed, perhaps to protect the innocent, perhaps to protect the guilty, there is no doubt in my mind that the horrors Jacobs describes occurred, and while my family arrived in America at the early part of this century, I still experienced a great embarassment and shame. Not because I had anything to do with those horrid crimes. No... I feel shame because I know it still continues today, and it saddens my heart to know it will probably continue tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Harriet Jacobs.

Haunting, 21 Sep 2008
The most tragic, haunting book ive ever read. Completed it in a day. Reached into my soul and almost tore it out. This womans story is incredible. Her fight for survival and for life.
How there are still people in the world who stoop to such depravity is beyone me.
For a truly emotional tale, it does not get any better than this.

haunting eyes, 11 Sep 2008
I read Sold afew years ago and i could not get it out of my head.I cried when i read it.I've since read Zana's second book and i'm still intrigued what happend to Nadia.You read the book and you want to go Yemen yourself and rescue her.The poor soul.You do not think it happens in this day of age.I've now got "Without Mercy",the mothers story of events.I do not want to glorify a wrong situation but the courage of Nadia to stick by her children and the families determination to get her home.A very sad story which i hope will never be repeated.

couldn't put it down, 06 May 2008
The book is very well written. I read the whole thing in one day, i felt like i was there living the nightmare with Nadia and Zana and my heart completly went out to both of them.
A true insight and eye opener to modern day slavery a book that will have you wanting to know more ...

Couldn't put this book down,,,,,,, gripping read, 31 Mar 2008
I read this book within two days, I just couldn't put it down and when I had to I did so rather grudgingly!

It is a true story, and I remember the publicity when it actually happened. Its a shocking story and I find it so hard to believe that women are still living in this way, it made me so glad to be British living in this century.

One of the reviewers commented on the poor writing but I actually thought it was very cleverly written. It was coloquial but I think that may have been the authors intention, it gave the impression that you were sitting with Zana, actually hearing her tell her story.

This book comes highly recommended!

This book had me sold., 10 Mar 2007
Zana Muhsen and her sister Nadia were thrilled when they learned that their father had paid for them to go on the trip of a life time. Faraway from their native Birmingham, they'd have two blissfull weeks of Sea, sand, and spectacular views in their fathers yemeni homeland. Due to legal discrepancies concerning the then 14 year old Nadia, Zana, 15 went on ahead of her little sister. Expecting blissful views, bare-back dessert camel rides and tropical seas - what she got was the shock of her life. On arriving in the desolate far away land Zana discovered to her horror that her father had literally sold herself and her sister into marriage and that, unable to warn her sister of her impending doom, they were now helplessly trapped! They suffered rape, several beatings and the terrifying ordeal of Child Birth in the raw with no pain relief or hospital care.

It took eight long torturous years for Zana to escape her life of hell, but when she touched back down on to English soil the world was desperate to hear her story. An now here it is, in her own words. This is a remarkable true story of one families fight against red tape, racism and beaurocracy. It is a story that left nations divided, a family torn apart and two cultures to clash head long into each other.

Sadly, though Zana finally made it home, her story does not have a happy ending. Sadly, Nadia did not manage to escape, and Zana was forced to leave her baby behind. (Her story is continued in 'A Promise To Nadia')

This story is utterly unbelievable, how one person can be so callous and unappologetic as their father, selling his own flesh and blood into a live of slavery. But while this book is painful and tremendously tear-jerking to read it make you appreciate how lucky you are to live in a civilization where you have free-will. It really shows you the other side of life, the power of hope, love and belief and above all the strength of the human spirit.



Wonderful biography of a great, great man, 22 Sep 2008
Some time ago I heard William Hague lecture on Wilberforce. It was a pleasure to hear such a fine speaker so on top of his subject. The lecture lasted an hour but could have gone on for three as far as I was concerned, it was so interesting. The same is true of the book. It is written by a political enthusiast about a fellow politician, in my mind one of the greatest politicians we have ever had. He laid aside a beckoning life of luxury and ease to devote himself to the service of people. He inherited a fortune but spent most of it helping people less fortunate than himself.
Remembered for his fight against the slave trade, Wilberforce was also the founder of over 100 charities. A deeply committed Christian, he also worked tirelessly to reform the manners of England. True, he was not perfect and made mistakes, but then which of us hasn't? He was also a man of his time but although we might not agree with some of his conclusions Hague takes us through the mental agony Wilberforce put his conscience through before he made them.
The book is meticulously researched and brilliantly written. One of the best biographies I have ever read, and I've read quite a few. Strongly recommended!

Very Good, 04 Nov 2007
William Wilberforce by William Hauge is a very good book about one of the leaders of the campaign to abolish slavery. It has a clear narrative structure and is informative without being overcomplicated. It is all in all a very good book about a man who acquired a deep evangelical faith (how Hauge deals and explains this is one of the best pieces of the work) which inspired him to help to rid the world of slavery.

A beacon of light, 17 Aug 2007
"A beacon of light which the passing of two centuries has scarcely dimmed". This is Hague's concluding assessment of Wilberforce. This fine biography should keep that light blazing. I think it will probably be the definitive biography of the great abolitionist for quite some time to come. Hague writes well and keeps one's attention throughout a long book. He is masterful at setting the historical scene. No doubt his previous biography of Wilberforce's friend Pitt was a great help in researching the period. One is given a real feel for a very different world where only men of means could afford to enter politics for getting elected, except to a rotten borough, could mean huge expense. It was a time when party allegiance was not so well developed and Wilberforce maintained his independence as a member of parliament for Yorkshire. He was a friend of Pitt but opposed him over the war with France as he opposed a later government over Queen Caroline. Hague does not fall into the trap of judging an historic figure by more modern criteria. Contemporary critics of Wilberforce disliked his social conservatism. His radicalism was aimed at stopping an evil trade not promoting cause of the poor close to home.Hague explains it. Wilberforce would give no support to those who would be socially disruptive and those applauding the French Revolution. His detestation of what had happened in France, Hague rightly identifies as Wilberforce's opposition to all things against religion.



One expects Hague to be good on the politics of Wilberforce's life but I was pleasantly surprised by his understanding of his subject's Evangelical faith. Christian faith we know transformed Wilberforce from a pleasure seeking young man into an ardent reformer. It was the motivation in all his subsequent life. As well as abolition it also moved him to seek the opening of India to Christian missions. Hague seems to have a sympathetic understanding of Wilberforce's Christianity as well as a great appreciation of his political achievements. here was an MP who was most diligent in his duties though he never held an office of state. There is also admiration for the personal character of his subject. He was a man who made friends, was hugely charitable and a loving husband and father. Here was a notable orator and a man of wit, welcome at the tables of the great and the good. His character was indeed that of a joyful Christian as Piper writes in his short biography. He died impoverished by his own personal charity and the foolishness of his eldest son. He declined ennoblement and wanted a quiet burial place but was laid to rest in Westminster Abbey for his contemporaries judged him to be great as well as good.


Wilberforce, 09 Aug 2007
William Hague follows up his debut biography of Pitt the Younger with Pitt's best friend and tireless slave-trade campaigner. It is the perfect sophomore effort. Similar era; one of the closest friendships in politics, yet, some great differences between the two great men. Pitt, the son of the great Chatham; by no means wealthy; eager for ministerial power. Wilberforce: from a very wealthy mercantile background; advocating the abolition of the slave-trade as an `Independent' constituent for Yorkshire.

I too disagree with a previous reviewer who seems to criticise Hague's book on his own personal dislike of Wilberforce, not on the merits of the book itself. I have to say that Hague paints a very fair and unbiased account of Wilberforce. Wilberforce considered himself an `Independent', not a Tory. He could be rightly called one of `Pitt's friends' but famously turned against Pitt in opposition to the Revolutionary War; he managed to remain on friendly terms with Fox and Grenville as a matter of fact. Hague does point to certain faults: his licentious youth, his frequent inability to commit to one side of an argument; his complete naivety on military affairs. The biography as a whole however is favourable to what emerges as a brilliant man; Hague quite rightly makes great use of contemporary descriptions of Wilberforce and offers a succinct argument for his policies.

For anyone who believes politics are boring, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Hague's description of the various machinations building up to the 1807 act is about as dramatic and exiting as it gets. Those were certainly exiting times in politics: two Revolution and two subsequent wars; Irish Union; reform; the trial of Warren Hastings; Catholic emancipation; the slave-trade etc.. Some of the greatest orators of all time graced the Commons' floor: Pitt, Burke, Fox, Sheridan and of course Wilberforce. Later Canning and Castlereagh would be added to that long list of luminaries. It puts our own politics to shame if truth be told.

Hague occasionally juxtaposes his own modern political world with the politics of that era yet never goes overboard while doing it. He instead draws out the eccentricities and bustle of the 18thc election; the lack of a party machine; the greater reliance on debate etc.. It frequently is reminiscent of an early satirical scene in A Pickwick Papers.

Christian Evangelicalism of course was hugely important to Wilberforce. In fairness he never imposed his Christianity though he sometimes despaired of Pitt's relevant lack of religion. Instead he offered guidance to any of his friends so inclined. It's significant that once he went through his dramatic conversion he still remained something of a social animal (despite his best efforts). Wilberforce has an amazing knack of remaining friends with rivals; contemporaries describe him as humorous, amiable and the soul of the party. He saw his own religion as enlightened, benevolent and uplifting; in stark contrast to Methodism which influenced him. Wilberforce never withdrew from life, his own Christianity reinvigorated it.

Hague's book is wonderfully presented with numerous plates; particularly brilliant are the many (nothing less than scathing will do) Gillray sketches. His research and use of sources is impeccable; his prose informative and accessible. All in all, Hague is turning into the new-Roy Jenkins. I like the fact that he seems to specialise in a era; an era I am very interested in as it happens. How about a Charles James Fox book William?

Fascinating history by an impressive historian!, 30 Jul 2007
I disagree fundamentally with another reviewer who seems to base his opinion of William Hague's book and his qualities as an historian on his (the reviewer's) personal distaste for the author's latest subject, William Wilberforce, the man himself and his doings.

This, in my opinion, is unfair, for, whilst I, too, did not 'take to' Wilberforce and would probably have found him to be an insufferable prig - the Paddy Ashdown of his day - and an overly-religious zealot, I admire Hague's impressive research and his excellent writing and I also seem to detect in the author a previously unnoticed tendency to liberalism. I was in the hall when William Hague made his famous Conservative Party Conference speech at the age of sixteen and he showed then no tendency to liberalism, excepting the economic variety.

I now suppose that he has seen in Pitt and Wilberforce (both the subjects of triumphant tomes from this historian) that, from promising youth, there can emerge powerful and lasting political personalities who were, in their day, though each conservative and/or Conservative in their respective ways, far ahead of their contemporaries in both ability and thinking. Hague himself showed promise in youth and has gained much with more years. (Will he ever be another Pitt or a replacement Wilberforce, though?).

Now, as to why Hague is apparently so sympathetic to Wilberforce is another matter. It is obviously received wisdom today that Wilberforce was right in many matters, especially his successful campaigning against the slave trade and slavery itself, but what I found surprising in Hague's biography was the strength of the case and the powerful reasoning against Wilberforce's attitudes to the slave trade and slavery. And when one sees today the situations in Haiti and Sierra Leone, both of which obtained Wilberforce's ardent support in their earliest years of 'independence,' it is scarcely surprising that Hague's hero's contemporaries and his many opponents should have envisaged the mayhem and disorder that actually occurred and has lasted.

I will end on a more generous note. The fine portrait of Wilberforce by George Richmond shows a man whom I would have been pleased to meet - for a short while, at least - despite his alleged canting hypocrisy. It oozes a handsome decency and is a fine inclusion - amongst many others - in a fine book. Well done, young William!

Is there an end to shame?, 09 Dec 2007
This book explores a very uncomfortable truth: this is the 21st century and slavery still exists. Following a murderous raid in her native Nuba village in Sudan, Mende Nazer was kidnapped in 1994 with other native children from that area. Her simple tribal life surrounded by a loving, united family came to an end that night. Sold to an Arab family in Khartoum, she learned to survive by "simply" enduring her fate. She was stripped of dignity and humanity, her desperation worsened by the lack of information about the rest of her family, not knowing whether they had survived the raid. It all made her plunge into a deep depression. She was humiliated, beaten and psychologically abused to a devastating extent and for several years. She was later "passed on" to another family, related to the one in Khartoum. This second family lived in London and it was there, in the year 2000, that Mende's fate changed.

This story is a condensation of facts reported simply and clearly by Mende in first person, beginning with her childhood (a very happy one despite her painful female circumcision at a very young age), all the way through her life and up until the events leading to freedom in London. She was helped in this process by journalist Damien Lewis and the result is a compelling read, where all is pieced together in a very accessible way. Mende's young and sober voice emerges with a powerful resonance in its quiet simplicity, a sad reminder of contemporary slavery. It's like a blow knocking the air out of you.

I am omitting further details as the reading would be spoiled. I abstain from commenting as the book comments itself and also because, no matter how "used" we are to hear about atrocities nowadays, it is difficult to convey in written words the outrage in the knowledge that such horrors still exist. Just one thing: this should be a compulsory read. It is not only informative and an eye-opener, it also goes to show that, thankfully, goodness still exists too, despite everything, and it unites everybody, irrespective of race, religion, social background.

a great read!, 26 Mar 2006
i read this book in the space of a few hours. i couldnt put it down. It was shocking at times, but also vey heartwarming, the way she talks about her family beofre the raid. She writes the book, through the eyes of a twelve year old. The way she describes everything is so well done that you can imagine what she must have been feeling like. This book is a real eye opener, and i would recomend it to everyone. It is an excellent story, and she is a very strong woman.

Slave - Mende Nazer, 25 Mar 2006
Emotive and powerfully written. This book takes you on a journey through Mende's life, through her own eyes. From humble, but happy beginnings through to her capture by slave traders, entrapment in Khartoum for 7 years and finally escape from her existence as a slave in London. It is gripping and difficult to put down. The more people that read this the better - the issues it raises are real and increasing their profile can only be a good thing.

It is astonishing but fathomable that slaves exist in any country - Sudan is far from politically stable and the incumbant Government is unlikely to recognise or further act to quash the slave trade. What amazed me more than this was that a girl was sold into slavery in London and worked and lived as a slave here.

Mende's struggle for freedom and unbelievable difficulty in securing asylum in our 'free' and 'democratic' society is almost absurd. If nothing else, this book should highlight the issue and raise awareness of not only the fact that the slave trade persists in the 21st century, but also that there are hundreds of genuine asylum seekers. If Mende's case wasn't so well publicised, she would probably be dead in Sudan by now.

Slave - Mende Mazer, 24 Jan 2006
A frank, and honest account of what Mende had been through. It's an uncomfortable, yet captivating read that makes you go though all kinds of emotions. I am a drama teacher, and have used Mende's story as a starting point for a coursework - the kids are captivated!

It is a eye opener to all the people who believe that slavery is in the past! My pupils and I send our best wishes to Mende as she works towards her new life!

incredible!!, 15 Jul 2005
This book was recommended to me by my best friend, who i borrowed it off. As soon as i began to read it i was hooked, the way it is written is truly captivating and makes it impossible to put it down.
Although certain parts of the book are quite disturbing you are forced to read on by the emotion in the way it's told. It disgusts me that these events took place in the 1990's as the brutality and superiority shown by the arab slave owners is barbaric and not at all how you would expect someone to treat another human being in this day and age.
This book gives a wonderful insight into a different culture shown through the eyes of a young sudanese girl whose childhood is savagely stolen from her. Follow her story as she travels from her tribal home in the Nuba mountains to London where she eventually makes a daring escape more than ten years after the raid on her village when she was captured and enslaved. I would recommend this book to everyone.

This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

A personal and intimate view of slavery, 29 Oct 2008
In the words of a born slave, who after a decade-long struggle achieves freedom, written to women of her own time, Linda Brent writes of her life in slavery and her long plight towards freedom.

Her experiences rise from the page and are now grounded in my memory. There are experiences of ruthless masters and mistresses, but also of family and friends, deep trust and helpfulness.

The strength of this autobiography is the author's use of her own words, shaped my time, culture, and the wish to protect certain parties.

I learned from this book, which gives a personal and intimate view at slavery and The United States circa 1860. Recommendable.

Louise.

Gripping and realistic, 28 May 1999
I've read this book a few times over the years. The first being for a college course. It stayed with me then as it did each and every time I've read it. I highly recommend this novel as it is so frighteningly realistic and poignant. I have found myself many times recommending this novel to friends and family. It is rich in culture, history and plot. I highly recommend it.

A frustrating story about a slave's 9 year escape to freedom, 03 Dec 1998
I had to read this book for school, and I was impressed with some of it. The tone was realistic and believable, and the characters were interesting. But the plot was slow, the book is 200 pages long, and the main character's passive nature makes you want to scream. I don't recommend this book for free reading, but as a slave narrative it meets it's purpose of telling the public about the horrors of slavery. I give it three stars.

A Lesson From the Heart, 20 Sep 1998
It took me a few days to track down this book, but thankfully, Amazom.Com had it, and was able to send it to me within a few days. I picked it up, expecting to be a long, dry read as most of the fiction (not just slave narratives, mind you) has a tendency to take on such characteristics. Just the style of the period, I suppose.

Boy, was I surprised. Harriet Jacobs, writing under a pseudonym, published this book in 1861 after spending many, many years in hiding from her "master," Dr. Charles Flint, a lecherous, sexually-aggressive man determined to break her spirit. Seven years in a cramped, ten-by-seven foot attic crawlspace, however, did little to crush this woman, for she not only managed to escape North Carolina herself, but her children and uncle escaped as well. Her grandmother, freed when she was fifty years old upon the death of her mistress, died during Jacobs' exile in Boston.

What I most enjoyed about this text was its style and frankness with the material. Written as a part slave narrative, part journal, and part epistle to the reader, Incidents tells a remarkable tale of the callousness of white men to slaves, who were deemed subhuman and ignorant. Harriet Jacobs demonstrates an enormous capacity for intelligence through her careful, brutally honest memoirs. Although the names of friends, family, and enemies were changed, perhaps to protect the innocent, perhaps to protect the guilty, there is no doubt in my mind that the horrors Jacobs describes occurred, and while my family arrived in America at the early part of this century, I still experienced a great embarassment and shame. Not because I had anything to do with those horrid crimes. No... I feel shame because I know it still continues today, and it saddens my heart to know it will probably continue tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Harriet Jacobs.

Haunting, 21 Sep 2008
The most tragic, haunting book ive ever read. Completed it in a day. Reached into my soul and almost tore it out. This womans story is incredible. Her fight for survival and for life.
How there are still people in the world who stoop to such depravity is beyone me.
For a truly emotional tale, it does not get any better than this.

haunting eyes, 11 Sep 2008
I read Sold afew years ago and i could not get it out of my head.I cried when i read it.I've since read Zana's second book and i'm still intrigued what happend to Nadia.You read the book and you want to go Yemen yourself and rescue her.The poor soul.You do not think it happens in this day of age.I've now got "Without Mercy",the mothers story of events.I do not want to glorify a wrong situation but the courage of Nadia to stick by her children and the families determination to get her home.A very sad story which i hope will never be repeated.

couldn't put it down, 06 May 2008
The book is very well written. I read the whole thing in one day, i felt like i was there living the nightmare with Nadia and Zana and my heart completly went out to both of them.
A true insight and eye opener to modern day slavery a book that will have you wanting to know more ...

Couldn't put this book down,,,,,,, gripping read, 31 Mar 2008
I read this book within two days, I just couldn't put it down and when I had to I did so rather grudgingly!

It is a true story, and I remember the publicity when it actually happened. Its a shocking story and I find it so hard to believe that women are still living in this way, it made me so glad to be British living in this century.

One of the reviewers commented on the poor writing but I actually thought it was very cleverly written. It was coloquial but I think that may have been the authors intention, it gave the impression that you were sitting with Zana, actually hearing her tell her story.

This book comes highly recommended!

This book had me sold., 10 Mar 2007
Zana Muhsen and her sister Nadia were thrilled when they learned that their father had paid for them to go on the trip of a life time. Faraway from their native Birmingham, they'd have two blissfull weeks of Sea, sand, and spectacular views in their fathers yemeni homeland. Due to legal discrepancies concerning the then 14 year old Nadia, Zana, 15 went on ahead of her little sister. Expecting blissful views, bare-back dessert camel rides and tropical seas - what she got was the shock of her life. On arriving in the desolate far away land Zana discovered to her horror that her father had literally sold herself and her sister into marriage and that, unable to warn her sister of her impending doom, they were now helplessly trapped! They suffered rape, several beatings and the terrifying ordeal of Child Birth in the raw with no pain relief or hospital care.

It took eight long torturous years for Zana to escape her life of hell, but when she touched back down on to English soil the world was desperate to hear her story. An now here it is, in her own words. This is a remarkable true story of one families fight against red tape, racism and beaurocracy. It is a story that left nations divided, a family torn apart and two cultures to clash head long into each other.

Sadly, though Zana finally made it home, her story does not have a happy ending. Sadly, Nadia did not manage to escape, and Zana was forced to leave her baby behind. (Her story is continued in 'A Promise To Nadia')

This story is utterly unbelievable, how one person can be so callous and unappologetic as their father, selling his own flesh and blood into a live of slavery. But while this book is painful and tremendously tear-jerking to read it make you appreciate how lucky you are to live in a civilization where you have free-will. It really shows you the other side of life, the power of hope, love and belief and above all the strength of the human spirit.



Wonderful biography of a great, great man, 22 Sep 2008
Some time ago I heard William Hague lecture on Wilberforce. It was a pleasure to hear such a fine speaker so on top of his subject. The lecture lasted an hour but could have gone on for three as far as I was concerned, it was so interesting. The same is true of the book. It is written by a political enthusiast about a fellow politician, in my mind one of the greatest politicians we have ever had. He laid aside a beckoning life of luxury and ease to devote himself to the service of people. He inherited a fortune but spent most of it helping people less fortunate than himself.
Remembered for his fight against the slave trade, Wilberforce was also the founder of over 100 charities. A deeply committed Christian, he also worked tirelessly to reform the manners of England. True, he was not perfect and made mistakes, but then which of us hasn't? He was also a man of his time but although we might not agree with some of his conclusions Hague takes us through the mental agony Wilberforce put his conscience through before he made them.
The book is meticulously researched and brilliantly written. One of the best biographies I have ever read, and I've read quite a few. Strongly recommended!

Very Good, 04 Nov 2007
William Wilberforce by William Hauge is a very good book about one of the leaders of the campaign to abolish slavery. It has a clear narrative structure and is informative without being overcomplicated. It is all in all a very good book about a man who acquired a deep evangelical faith (how Hauge deals and explains this is one of the best pieces of the work) which inspired him to help to rid the world of slavery.

A beacon of light, 17 Aug 2007
"A beacon of light which the passing of two centuries has scarcely dimmed". This is Hague's concluding assessment of Wilberforce. This fine biography should keep that light blazing. I think it will probably be the definitive biography of the great abolitionist for quite some time to come. Hague writes well and keeps one's attention throughout a long book. He is masterful at setting the historical scene. No doubt his previous biography of Wilberforce's friend Pitt was a great help in researching the period. One is given a real feel for a very different world where only men of means could afford to enter politics for getting elected, except to a rotten borough, could mean huge expense. It was a time when party allegiance was not so well developed and Wilberforce maintained his independence as a member of parliament for Yorkshire. He was a friend of Pitt but opposed him over the war with France as he opposed a later government over Queen Caroline. Hague does not fall into the trap of judging an historic figure by more modern criteria. Contemporary critics of Wilberforce disliked his social conservatism. His radicalism was aimed at stopping an evil trade not promoting cause of the poor close to home.Hague explains it. Wilberforce would give no support to those who would be socially disruptive and those applauding the French Revolution. His detestation of what had happened in France, Hague rightly identifies as Wilberforce's opposition to all things against religion.



One expects Hague to be good on the politics of Wilberforce's life but I was pleasantly surprised by his understanding of his subject's Evangelical faith. Christian faith we know transformed Wilberforce from a pleasure seeking young man into an ardent reformer. It was the motivation in all his subsequent life. As well as abolition it also moved him to seek the opening of India to Christian missions. Hague seems to have a sympathetic understanding of Wilberforce's Christianity as well as a great appreciation of his political achievements. here was an MP who was most diligent in his duties though he never held an office of state. There is also admiration for the personal character of his subject. He was a man who made friends, was hugely charitable and a loving husband and father. Here was a notable orator and a man of wit, welcome at the tables of the great and the good. His character was indeed that of a joyful Christian as Piper writes in his short biography. He died impoverished by his own personal charity and the foolishness of his eldest son. He declined ennoblement and wanted a quiet burial place but was laid to rest in Westminster Abbey for his contemporaries judged him to be great as well as good.


Wilberforce, 09 Aug 2007
William Hague follows up his debut biography of Pitt the Younger with Pitt's best friend and tireless slave-trade campaigner. It is the perfect sophomore effort. Similar era; one of the closest friendships in politics, yet, some great differences between the two great men. Pitt, the son of the great Chatham; by no means wealthy; eager for ministerial power. Wilberforce: from a very wealthy mercantile background; advocating the abolition of the slave-trade as an `Independent' constituent for Yorkshire.

I too disagree with a previous reviewer who seems to criticise Hague's book on his own personal dislike of Wilberforce, not on the merits of the book itself. I have to say that Hague paints a very fair and unbiased account of Wilberforce. Wilberforce considered himself an `Independent', not a Tory. He could be rightly called one of `Pitt's friends' but famously turned against Pitt in opposition to the Revolutionary War; he managed to remain on friendly terms with Fox and Grenville as a matter of fact. Hague does point to certain faults: his licentious youth, his frequent inability to commit to one side of an argument; his complete naivety on military affairs. The biography as a whole however is favourable to what emerges as a brilliant man; Hague quite rightly makes great use of contemporary descriptions of Wilberforce and offers a succinct argument for his policies.

For anyone who believes politics are boring, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Hague's description of the various machinations building up to the 1807 act is about as dramatic and exiting as it gets. Those were certainly exiting times in politics: two Revolution and two subsequent wars; Irish Union; reform; the trial of Warren Hastings; Catholic emancipation; the slave-trade etc.. Some of the greatest orators of all time graced the Commons' floor: Pitt, Burke, Fox, Sheridan and of course Wilberforce. Later Canning and Castlereagh would be added to that long list of luminaries. It puts our own politics to shame if truth be told.

Hague occasionally juxtaposes his own modern political world with the politics of that era yet never goes overboard while doing it. He instead draws out the eccentricities and bustle of the 18thc election; the lack of a party machine; the greater reliance on debate etc.. It frequently is reminiscent of an early satirical scene in A Pickwick Papers.

Christian Evangelicalism of course was hugely important to Wilberforce. In fairness he never imposed his Christianity though he sometimes despaired of Pitt's relevant lack of religion. Instead he offered guidance to any of his friends so inclined. It's significant that once he went through his dramatic conversion he still remained something of a social animal (despite his best efforts). Wilberforce has an amazing knack of remaining friends with rivals; contemporaries describe him as humorous, amiable and the soul of the party. He saw his own religion as enlightened, benevolent and uplifting; in stark contrast to Methodism which influenced him. Wilberforce never withdrew from life, his own Christianity reinvigorated it.

Hague's book is wonderfully presented with numerous plates; particularly brilliant are the many (nothing less than scathing will do) Gillray sketches. His research and use of sources is impeccable; his prose informative and accessible. All in all, Hague is turning into the new-Roy Jenkins. I like the fact that he seems to specialise in a era; an era I am very interested in as it happens. How about a Charles James Fox book William?

Fascinating history by an impressive historian!, 30 Jul 2007
I disagree fundamentally with another reviewer who seems to base his opinion of William Hague's book and his qualities as an historian on his (the reviewer's) personal distaste for the author's latest subject, William Wilberforce, the man himself and his doings.

This, in my opinion, is unfair, for, whilst I, too, did not 'take to' Wilberforce and would probably have found him to be an insufferable prig - the Paddy Ashdown of his day - and an overly-religious zealot, I admire Hague's impressive research and his excellent writing and I also seem to detect in the author a previously unnoticed tendency to liberalism. I was in the hall when William Hague made his famous Conservative Party Conference speech at the age of sixteen and he showed then no tendency to liberalism, excepting the economic variety.

I now suppose that he has seen in Pitt and Wilberforce (both the subjects of triumphant tomes from this historian) that, from promising youth, there can emerge powerful and lasting political personalities who were, in their day, though each conservative and/or Conservative in their respective ways, far ahead of their contemporaries in both ability and thinking. Hague himself showed promise in youth and has gained much with more years. (Will he ever be another Pitt or a replacement Wilberforce, though?).

Now, as to why Hague is apparently so sympathetic to Wilberforce is another matter. It is obviously received wisdom today that Wilberforce was right in many matters, especially his successful campaigning against the slave trade and slavery itself, but what I found surprising in Hague's biography was the strength of the case and the powerful reasoning against Wilberforce's attitudes to the slave trade and slavery. And when one sees today the situations in Haiti and Sierra Leone, both of which obtained Wilberforce's ardent support in their earliest years of 'independence,' it is scarcely surprising that Hague's hero's contemporaries and his many opponents should have envisaged the mayhem and disorder that actually occurred and has lasted.

I will end on a more generous note. The fine portrait of Wilberforce by George Richmond shows a man whom I would have been pleased to meet - for a short while, at least - despite his alleged canting hypocrisy. It oozes a handsome decency and is a fine inclusion - amongst many others - in a fine book. Well done, young William!

Is there an end to shame?, 09 Dec 2007
This book explores a very uncomfortable truth: this is the 21st century and slavery still exists. Following a murderous raid in her native Nuba village in Sudan, Mende Nazer was kidnapped in 1994 with other native children from that area. Her simple tribal life surrounded by a loving, united family came to an end that night. Sold to an Arab family in Khartoum, she learned to survive by "simply" enduring her fate. She was stripped of dignity and humanity, her desperation worsened by the lack of information about the rest of her family, not knowing whether they had survived the raid. It all made her plunge into a deep depression. She was humiliated, beaten and psychologically abused to a devastating extent and for several years. She was later "passed on" to another family, related to the one in Khartoum. This second family lived in London and it was there, in the year 2000, that Mende's fate changed.

This story is a condensation of facts reported simply and clearly by Mende in first person, beginning with her childhood (a very happy one despite her painful female circumcision at a very young age), all the way through her life and up until the events leading to freedom in London. She was helped in this process by journalist Damien Lewis and the result is a compelling read, where all is pieced together in a very accessible way. Mende's young and sober voice emerges with a powerful resonance in its quiet simplicity, a sad reminder of contemporary slavery. It's like a blow knocking the air out of you.

I am omitting further details as the reading would be spoiled. I abstain from commenting as the book comments itself and also because, no matter how "used" we are to hear about atrocities nowadays, it is difficult to convey in written words the outrage in the knowledge that such horrors still exist. Just one thing: this should be a compulsory read. It is not only informative and an eye-opener, it also goes to show that, thankfully, goodness still exists too, despite everything, and it unites everybody, irrespective of race, religion, social background.

a great read!, 26 Mar 2006
i read this book in the space of a few hours. i couldnt put it down. It was shocking at times, but also vey heartwarming, the way she talks about her family beofre the raid. She writes the book, through the eyes of a twelve year old. The way she describes everything is so well done that you can imagine what she must have been feeling like. This book is a real eye opener, and i would recomend it to everyone. It is an excellent story, and she is a very strong woman.

Slave - Mende Nazer, 25 Mar 2006
Emotive and powerfully written. This book takes you on a journey through Mende's life, through her own eyes. From humble, but happy beginnings through to her capture by slave traders, entrapment in Khartoum for 7 years and finally escape from her existence as a slave in London. It is gripping and difficult to put down. The more people that read this the better - the issues it raises are real and increasing their profile can only be a good thing.

It is astonishing but fathomable that slaves exist in any country - Sudan is far from politically stable and the incumbant Government is unlikely to recognise or further act to quash the slave trade. What amazed me more than this was that a girl was sold into slavery in London and worked and lived as a slave here.

Mende's struggle for freedom and unbelievable difficulty in securing asylum in our 'free' and 'democratic' society is almost absurd. If nothing else, this book should highlight the issue and raise awareness of not only the fact that the slave trade persists in the 21st century, but also that there are hundreds of genuine asylum seekers. If Mende's case wasn't so well publicised, she would probably be dead in Sudan by now.

Slave - Mende Mazer, 24 Jan 2006
A frank, and honest account of what Mende had been through. It's an uncomfortable, yet captivating read that makes you go though all kinds of emotions. I am a drama teacher, and have used Mende's story as a starting point for a coursework - the kids are captivated!

It is a eye opener to all the people who believe that slavery is in the past! My pupils and I send our best wishes to Mende as she works towards her new life!

incredible!!, 15 Jul 2005
This book was recommended to me by my best friend, who i borrowed it off. As soon as i began to read it i was hooked, the way it is written is truly captivating and makes it impossible to put it down.
Although certain parts of the book are quite disturbing you are forced to read on by the emotion in the way it's told. It disgusts me that these events took place in the 1990's as the brutality and superiority shown by the arab slave owners is barbaric and not at all how you would expect someone to treat another human being in this day and age.
This book gives a wonderful insight into a different culture shown through the eyes of a young sudanese girl whose childhood is savagely stolen from her. Follow her story as she travels from her tribal home in the Nuba mountains to London where she eventually makes a daring escape more than ten years after the raid on her village when she was captured and enslaved. I would recommend this book to everyone.

Fascinating and uplifting, 07 Apr 2005
In 1901, Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) published this autobiography. Born into slavery, after emancipation, Mr. Washington developed a philosophy that African-Americans needed to sweep away the ignorance that their subservient position had left them with, and earn the respect of the whites through hard work and excellence. In 1881 he founded the Tuskegee Institute to teach African-Americans how to study, how to work hard and intelligently (producing better results than the white businesses of the day), and how to have respect for themselves and others. This is Mr. Washington's story of his youth and his success at Tukegee.

This is a fascinating and uplifting book. Though cognizant of the racism that often surrounded him, Mr. Washington never lost his faith in the basic goodness of the people of all colors that he met. The only problem I had with this excellent book was the knowledge I could not shake, that Mr. Washington's faith was not rewarded, and the white community of the day would not give the African-American community respect and fair treatment.

That said, though, this is a great and wonderful book, which should rightly be considered an American classic. If you want to read a book that is a window on the America of the late nineteenth century, or if you want an uplifting book about a man of faith and love, then I highly recommend that you get this book!

An epic book, 13 Feb 2000
A most brilliant book, an honest and inspiring account, Washington worked tirelessly for the cause of the coloured race and at the same time endeavoured to bring blacks and whites together to live and work in harmony. I only started to become interested in reading accounts of ex-slaves after reading Maya Angelou`s autobiographical books, it just seems to have led from there, but I am learning more than ever! I look forward to reading other people`s reviews in the future.

This moving story creates an empathy for negro slaves., 01 Sep 1999
This book was moving and a good summer reading book for students like myself in high school.

1sthand account of the evils of this "peculiar institution", 31 Aug 1999
This is a great book, and I feel everyone should read it. Iwasn't forced to read, but I chose to read it on my own in order to better understand the nation's injustices. Douglass' first hand account of slavery is one of the best sources. His writing isn't wordy or difficult to understand, either.

Great man, great book.

Outstanding read, 08 Jun 1999
I Read Douglass for an assignment in my college U.S. History class, and was almost dreading opening this book afraid that Douglass would blame every white person for his torment. Instead I found that Douglass knew the difference between the slave owners and the people who were trying to stop the practice. I finished this book in a matter of days, and respect Douglass as the extreamly brave man that he was. The paper I wrote reflected my outrage that such an occurance could have happened in this beautiful country.

A personal and intimate view of slavery, 29 Oct 2008
In the words of a born slave, who after a decade-long struggle achieves freedom, written to women of her own time, Linda Brent writes of her life in slavery and her long plight towards freedom.

Her experiences rise from the page and are now grounded in my memory. There are experiences of ruthless masters and mistresses, but also of family and friends, deep trust and helpfulness.

The strength of this autobiography is the author's use of her own words, shaped my time, culture, and the wish to protect certain parties.

I learned from this book, which gives a personal and intimate view at slavery and The United States circa 1860. Recommendable.

Louise.

Gripping and realistic, 28 May 1999
I've read this book a few times over the years. The first being for a college course. It stayed with me then as it did each and every time I've read it. I highly recommend this novel as it is so frighteningly realistic and poignant. I have found myself many times recommending this novel to friends and family. It is rich in culture, history and plot. I highly recommend it.

A frustrating story about a slave's 9 year escape to freedom, 03 Dec 1998
I had to read this book for school, and I was impressed with some of it. The tone was realistic and believable, and the characters were interesting. But the plot was slow, the book is 200 pages long, and the main character's passive nature makes you want to scream. I don't recommend this book for free reading, but as a slave narrative it meets it's purpose of telling the public about the horrors of slavery. I give it three stars.

A Lesson From the Heart, 20 Sep 1998
It took me a few days to track down this book, but thankfully, Amazom.Com had it, and was able to send it to me within a few days. I picked it up, expecting to be a long, dry read as most of the fiction (not just slave narratives, mind you) has a tendency to take on such characteristics. Just the style of the period, I suppose.

Boy, was I surprised. Harriet Jacobs, writing under a pseudonym, published this book in 1861 after spending many, many years in hiding from her "master," Dr. Charles Flint, a lecherous, sexually-aggressive man determined to break her spirit. Seven years in a cramped, ten-by-seven foot attic crawlspace, however, did little to crush this woman, for she not only managed to escape North Carolina herself, but her children and uncle escaped as well. Her grandmother, freed when she was fifty years old upon the death of her mistress, died during Jacobs' exile in Boston.

What I most enjoyed about this text was its style and frankness with the material. Written as a part slave narrative, part journal, and part epistle to the reader, Incidents tells a remarkable tale of the callousness of white men to slaves, who were deemed subhuman and ignorant. Harriet Jacobs demonstrates an enormous capacity for intelligence through her careful, brutally honest memoirs. Although the names of friends, family, and enemies were changed, perhaps to protect the innocent, perhaps to protect the guilty, there is no doubt in my mind that the horrors Jacobs describes occurred, and while my family arrived in America at the early part of this century, I still experienced a great embarassment and shame. Not because I had anything to do with those horrid crimes. No... I feel shame because I know it still continues today, and it saddens my heart to know it will probably continue tomorrow.

Rest in peace, Harriet Jacobs.

Haunting, 21 Sep 2008
The most tragic, haunting book ive ever read. Completed it in a day. Reached into my soul and almost tore it out. This womans story is incredible. Her fight for survival and for life.
How there are still people in the world who stoop to such depravity is beyone me.
For a truly emotional tale, it does not get any better than this.

haunting eyes, 11 Sep 2008
I read Sold afew years ago and i could not get it out of my head.I cried when i read it.I've since read Zana's second book and i'm still intrigued what happend to Nadia.You read the book and you want to go Yemen yourself and rescue her.The poor soul.You do not think it happens in this day of age.I've now got "Without Mercy",the mothers story of events.I do not want to glorify a wrong situation but the courage of Nadia to stick by her children and the families determination to get her home.A very sad story which i hope will never be repeated.

couldn't put it down, 06 May 2008
The book is very well written. I read the whole thing in one day, i felt like i was there living the nightmare with Nadia and Zana and my heart completly went out to both of them.
A true insight and eye opener to modern day slavery a book that will have you wanting to know more ...

Couldn't put this book down,,,,,,, gripping read, 31 Mar 2008
I read this book within two days, I just couldn't put it down and when I had to I did so rather grudgingly!

It is a true story, and I remember the publicity when it actually happened. Its a shocking story and I find it so hard to believe that women are still living in this way, it made me so glad to be British living in this century.

One of the reviewers commented on the poor writing but I actually thought it was very cleverly written. It was coloquial but I think that may have been the authors intention, it gave the impression that you were sitting with Zana, actually hearing her tell her story.

This book comes highly recommended!

This book had me sold., 10 Mar 2007
Zana Muhsen and her sister Nadia were thrilled when they learned that their father had paid for them to go on the trip of a life time. Faraway from their native Birmingham, they'd have two blissfull weeks of Sea, sand, and spectacular views in their fathers yemeni homeland. Due to legal discrepancies concerning the then 14 year old Nadia, Zana, 15 went on ahead of her little sister. Expecting blissful views, bare-back dessert camel rides and tropical seas - what she got was the shock of her life. On arriving in the desolate far away land Zana discovered to her horror that her father had literally sold herself and her sister into marriage and that, unable to warn her sister of her impending doom, they were now helplessly trapped! They suffered rape, several beatings and the terrifying ordeal of Child Birth in the raw with no pain relief or hospital care.

It took eight long torturous years for Zana to escape her life of hell, but when she touched back down on to English soil the world was desperate to hear her story. An now here it is, in her own words. This is a remarkable true story of one families fight against red tape, racism and beaurocracy. It is a story that left nations divided, a family torn apart and two cultures to clash head long into each other.

Sadly, though Zana finally made it home, her story does not have a happy ending. Sadly, Nadia did not manage to escape, and Zana was forced to leave her baby behind. (Her story is continued in 'A Promise To Nadia')

This story is utterly unbelievable, how one person can be so callous and unappologetic as their father, selling his own flesh and blood into a live of slavery. But while this book is painful and tremendously tear-jerking to read it make you appreciate how lucky you are to live in a civilization where you have free-will. It really shows you the other side of life, the power of hope, love and belief and above all the strength of the human spirit.



Wonderful biography of a great, great man, 22 Sep 2008
Some time ago I heard William Hague lecture on Wilberforce. It was a pleasure to hear such a fine speaker so on top of his subject. The lecture lasted an hour but could have gone on for three as far as I was concerned, it was so interesting. The same is true of the book. It is writ