In the Shadow of Liberty-First Advance Review Is In!
The first advance review of my forthcoming book IN THE SHADOW OF LIBERTY: The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives will appear in the June 1, 2016 issue of Book List, the journal of the American Library Association.
In the Shadow of Liberty: The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives (Holt Books-Sept. 2016)
BOOK LIST STARRED REVIEW Issue: June 1, 2016
In the Shadow of Liberty: The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives.
Davis, Kenneth C. (Author)
Sep 2016. 304 p. Holt, hardcover, $17.99. (9781627793117). 920.0092.
“This well-researched book offers a chronological history of slavery in America and features five enslaved people and the four U.S. presidents who owned them. George Washington’s trusted valet, Billy Lee, served at his side throughout the Revolutionary War and was freed at his death. Martha Washington’s personal maid and seamstress, Ona Judge, escaped and fled to New Hampshire. Born into slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello, Isaac Granger recalled life there in an oral account, later published. Similarly, Paul Jennings’ reminiscences provide insights into his life with the Madisons in the White House and at Montpelier. Alfred Jackson lived in slavery at Andrew Jackson’s the Hermitage.
Always referring to enslaved people rather than slaves, Davis organizes a great deal of factual material, personal accounts, and quotes into a very readable history book. Ties to familiar historical figures give the information about the five lesser known African Americans a greater sense of context. In turn, the book offers a particularly realistic and nuanced view of these presidents. The illustrations include black-and-white reproductions of paintings, prints, and photos of artifacts and historic sites. A valuable, broad perspective on slavery, paired with close-up views of individuals who benefited from it and those who endured it.”
— Carolyn Phelan
The book will be published by Holt Books for Young Reader on September 20, 2016.
