Review of The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes: Enlistment in the Union Army

[Asher Willams]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes: Enlistment in the Union Army" by David J Mason.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

Slavery is a monster that drains both the enslaver and the enslaved. To the enslaver, it brings down self-worth to the point of punishing others to feel better about one's self. To the enslaved, it brings immense suffering and loss of faith in humanity. The above is the experience of Parson and his brothers.

Parson Sykes was born into slavery and chose to liberate himself from it no matter the cost. Parson didn't allow Jacob William's manipulative and spirit-lowering comments to make him change his mind about escaping and joining the Union army. The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes Trilogy, book two: Enlistment in the Union Army, brings to light the contributions of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) to the American Civil War, including the role of over 5,000 USCT soldiers at the Battle of Appomattox Court House.

I like how resilient and determined Parson was in his quest not just for self-liberation but also to improve himself. Parson didn't mind the harsh weather, the risk of being killed, and the discrimination from his white brothers in arms; he was determined and focused.

This book is based on actual life events, so it reads more like a documentary, but then I like the characters and how they were portrayed. My second favourite character, Parson being the first and Abraham Lincoln being the third, is Major General Benjamin Butler, whom Parson described as an equal opportunity commander. Abraham Lincoln's reforms were so needed for the country to move forward. President Abraham Lincoln also recognized the Black soldiers by saying, "Without the military help of the Black freedmen, the war against the South could not have been won."

One thing I want to comment on is the lack of agreement on what caused the war, as mentioned in the book. The southern states seceded from the union because Abraham Lincoln, who had been fighting against slavery, won the presidential election of 1860. The war was started to ensure that the union remained whole. Looking at it, it is clear that the primary cause of the war was slavery.

This book is a trilogy but can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone. COL David J. Mason did a marvelous job portraying Blacks' contributions to winning the war by the union just as Parson had described it. COL David J. Mason beautifully portrayed the characters. The book sheds light on the most overlooked part of the American Civil War. This book is informative and well-researched, too. There is nothing I dislike about the book. Looking at the above reasons, I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.
Additionally, this book is professionally edited, as I found only one error while reading it. This is an excellent book for all lovers of historical fiction and books on wars and slavery abolishment. Those who are interested in American history might also find it helpful.

******
The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes: Enlistment in the Union Army
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Mark Lazarus]

A powerful and important story that highlights the resilience of Parson Sykes and the crucial role of Black soldiers in the Civil War. The blend of historical fact and personal determination makes it both inspiring and educational.