Review of Columbus, Slave Trader

[Veronica Hunter]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Columbus, Slave Trader by Marcus Wilson is a historical fiction in which the author describes true historical events that transpired in Hispaniola between 1493 and 1495. The author describes this story using Guarocuya, a native of Hispaniola, as the narrator of the book. Though it is a fictional book, many of the events described and the characters in the book are historical, accurate, and recorded. Admiral Columbus is on a quest to find gold. The quest doesn't turn out as planned, and instead of the gold, which he is unable to find in large quantities, he decides to trade slaves as an alternative. It's a gripping narrative that promises to capture your attention till the very end as you read about a part of history that describes the inhumane treatment that the Taínos suffered at the hands of Columbus and his men.
 
Marcus Wilson, in this historical fiction, shows the reader a different perspective on Admiral Columbus. Columbus was known as an explorer, but in this novel, the author writes about Columbus, the slave trader. This aspect of history is unknown to many and may even be contested by some because of its authenticity, as it may be difficult to believe that Columbus himself was one of the first slave traders. 
 
What resonated with me the most in the book was Guarocuya's unwavering loyalty to his people. His choice to forsake the comforts he could have had in Spain and return home is truly commendable. Moreover, he willingly takes considerable risks, even risking his own life, to ensure the freedom and safety of his people.
 
I encountered no drawbacks while reading the book and found myself enamored with every aspect of it. The narrative was riveting, and I commend the author for creating such an extraordinary masterpiece. Utilizing a native narrator for this historical novel offers a unique perspective on history. The book's flawless editing is a testament to the editor's exceptional work, deserving recognition. Consequently, I give this captivating story a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
 
I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in history; it provides readers with a detailed account of the events that unfolded in Hispaniola.

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Columbus, Slave Trader
View: on Bookshelves

[Joshua Sawders]

Wow, this review definitely makes Columbus, Slave Trader by Marcus Wilson sound like an intriguing and eye-opening read! I appreciate how the author uses a native narrator to provide a fresh perspective on the historical events. It's fascinating to learn about the lesser-known aspect of Columbus as a slave trader. The reviewer's admiration for Guarocuya's loyalty and bravery is inspiring. The book seems to have captured the reader's attention from start to finish without any drawbacks. Based on this detailed and positive review, I'm definitely adding Columbus, Slave Trader to my reading list! Absorbing pacing, kept the story moving briskly.

[Rebecca De Figueiredo]

In this well researched novel, I enjoyed the warmth of the Tainos people and the descriptions of Haiti. It was a time when some European countries were laying claim to countries which were not theirs to lay claim to. A in-depth and good read.

[karan0701]

Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson is an in-depth study about Christopher Columbus in relation to the slave trade. It is proficiently researched with historical documents and first-hand accounts in providing a corrective view of the activities of Columbus and his entire navigation upon the indigenous peoples.
Engaging, informative, and incisive, this writing by Wilson sets up a counterbalanced review of age-old tales surrounding Columbus. Nothing seems lacking in this read vis-à-vis the stark realities and tough moral questions of the time; if one's looking for a reappraisal with added nuance, then this is the read.

The language used by Wilson in the book is professional and academic. There are no instances of vulgarity, abusive language, or slang; hence, it is suitable for a large readership pool including students and educators. Emphasis is always on the factual description and impartial presentation of Columbus' legacy, which makes this source very credible to learn about this part of history.

[karan0701]

Columbus, Slave Trader" is a deep, thought-provoking research look into Christopher Columbus by Marcus Wilson, one area of his life usually glossed over in the traditional historical narrative. It identifies Wilson guiding readers through Columbus's involvement in the Transatlantic slave trade to significantly re-think his legacy.

Wilson begins with the locating of Columbus within the larger picture of European exploration and colonialism in the fifteenth century, along with the attitudes towards 'indigenous' peoples and the economic motives behind European expansion. Therefore, based on this background, one gets a comprehensive view of Columbus's acts and decisions.

Most of the materials Wilson used to base his argument are of primary nature; letters, logs, and contemporary accounts. He details Columbus' expeditions, showing how his original curiosity and trade with the native populations of the Caribbean shifted into exploitation and enslavement. Through Wilsons pen, "An insatiable promise of riches to the Spanish patrons oversaw forced labor and brutal treatment".

Among the actual strengths of this book is a very well-balanced approach; after all, even when Wilson criticizes Columbus the most, there is not a word to spare, though on the other hand, he realizes the complexity of a historical person and the context in which he operated. He does this in explaining what motivated Columbus—like issues of gaining wealth and status—but places the motives within broader framework of economic and political pressures that force their way through. Characterization here enables the reader to view Columbus not only as some flat, one-dimensional bad guy, but, in part, as a product of his time.

Limpid, eschewing esoteric terms, the language stays clear and lucid for a wide readership, claims Wilson. Quite logically, with this coherent gait, each chapter builds on its predecessors to detail fullscale Columbus's dealing in slavery. Of course, this piece is really a page-turner because he weaves elements of history and analysis into storytelling alive to the senses.

The book, however, does not shun from the brutality of the subject matter. Wilson goes into considerable detail regarding the violence and suffering inflicted upon the indigenous peoples. Sometimes these passages were harrowing, but they showed clearly the full weight of what Columbus' actions entailed. One justly appreciates the honesty and accuracy with which Wilson takes up these events.

There are no abusive words, foul language, or slang used in "Columbus, Slave Trader". Throughout it, Wilson has used professional and respectful language and has always maintained factual representation and analysis. Descriptions of violence and exploitation are matter-of-fact and no sensationalism is evident with vivid descriptions.

[Hazel Arnaiz]

The fictional story appears to provide a different angle on history, which could challenge what is commonly accepted.  The weaving of fact and fiction appears to be an approach for drawing attention to and revisiting historical events.

[AJIBOLA Olasunbo Aminat]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Share This Review

---

Columbus, Slave Trader by Marcus Wilson is a historical fiction in which the author describes true historical events that transpired in Hispaniola between 1493 and 1495. The author describes this story using Guarocuya, a native of Hispaniola, as the narrator of the book. Though it is a fictional book, many of the events described and the characters in the book are historical, accurate, and recorded. Admiral Columbus is on a quest to find gold. The quest doesn't turn out as planned, and instead of the gold, which he is unable to find in large quantities, he decides to trade slaves as an alternative. It's a gripping narrative that promises to capture your attention till the very end as you read about a part of history that describes the inhumane treatment that the Taínos suffered at the hands of Columbus and his men.
 
Marcus Wilson, in this historical fiction, shows the reader a different perspective on Admiral Columbus. Columbus was known as an explorer, but in this novel, the author writes about Columbus, the slave trader. This aspect of history is unknown to many and may even be contested by some because of its authenticity, as it may be difficult to believe that Columbus himself was one of the first slave traders. 
 
What resonated with me the most in the book was Guarocuya's unwavering loyalty to his people. His choice to forsake the comforts he could have had in Spain and return home is truly commendable. Moreover, he willingly takes considerable risks, even risking his own life, to ensure the freedom and safety of his people.
 
I encountered no drawbacks while reading the book and found myself enamored with every aspect of it. The narrative was riveting, and I commend the author for creating such an extraordinary masterpiece. Utilizing a native narrator for this historical novel offers a unique perspective on history. The book's flawless editing is a testament to the editor's exceptional work, deserving recognition. Consequently, I give this captivating story a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
 
I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in history; it provides readers with a detailed account of the events that unfolded in Hispaniola.

******
Columbus, Slave Trader
View: on Bookshelves

Thanks for this detailed review! Your powerful narrative highlights how revisiting and understanding our history can inform and shape our future. Congrats on becoming BOTD!

[karan0701]

In this book, Wilson has undertaken to break all such perceptions one carries about Columbus and instead takes upon himself the task of finding out his role in slave trading and exploitation of natives.
The text also dwells on arguments based on moral and ethical implications with regard to the actions of Columbus, his role in history, and an overall understanding of the man. It is vigorously brought out that European colonialism generally had an appalling effect on the indigenous peoples of the Americas through the introduction of slavery, diseases, and cultural destruction.

He kept a very tight historical methodology, always relating to primary sources and historical documents aided by scholarly research in order to back up the arguments. The book is lucid and easy to understand, hence very suitable for both the academic and general audiences in history.

There is no abusive language or slang found in "Columbus, Slave Trader". He managed his ability to stay in this discourse from start to finish with a professional and academic tone, never to depart from the strictness of his factual accuracy of presentation and historical analytical task.

The work contained in this book is an interesting, thought-provoking piece of research on the subject, some with quite compelling arguments. It gives readers a platform to interrogate extremely accepted historical discourses hitherto taken for granted and attaches values to discourses continuing over the legacies of colonization and slavery.

[_Rhea Jacob]

It looks like an interesting historical fiction that describes true events on what happened in Hispaniola with Columbus becoming a slave trader. Thank you for your review!

[Liam Patel]

Your review of the book clearly shows how the book offers a new standpoint on Columbus by calling attention to his role in the slave trade. Guarocuya’s dedication and bravery make the story compelling. Your praise and perfect rating suggest that it’s a must-read for anyone interested in this part of history.

[Isaac Ozo-okafor]

I'd love to view this book from the standpoint of adventurous exploration, as Admiral Columbus set out in set of gold but then fate brought him face to face with the act of slave trade, or rather greed did. The story of slavery is always an emotional tale to tell.

[Amir Mazouz]

The review of "Columbus, Slave Trader" is excellent. It clearly summarizes the book's plot, highlights its unique perspective on Columbus, and effectively conveys the narrator's compelling role. It praises the narrative and editing while emphasizing the book's historical depth and emotional impact. The review is engaging and convincingly supports its perfect rating.

[Seetha E]

I concur with the direction stated in the African proverb. The story is compelling to read, despite the existing knowledge. Its accurate events, locations, and timeline add to my curiosity. Thanks for the informative review.

[Young Vet]

I want gain more historical knowledge about slavery and slave trading.I hope this book can give me a background of what i am looking for.

[KHUSHI KAVATHIYA]

Although Columbus’s activities brought some evil into the world, his contribution to unifying different parts of the world can hardly be regarded as a minor event. These journeys signify one of the important epochs in history as they opened a new direction in Man’s interconnection.