Review of Columbus, Slave Trader

Please use this forum to discuss historical fiction books. Common definitions define historical fiction as novels written at least 25-50 years after the book's setting.
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Magdalyne chebet
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Re: Review of Columbus, Slave Trader

Post by Magdalyne chebet »

"Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson is a gripping historical fiction narrated by Guarocuya, a native of Hispaniola. It vividly depicts the brutal treatment of the Taínos by Columbus and his men, highlighting Columbus's role as a slave trader. The story captures Guarocuya's courageous efforts to protect his people. This fascinating perspective on history is definitely a must-read! Thank you for the review.
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Nancy004
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Post by Nancy004 »

"Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson offers a gripping and eye-opening account of Columbus's lesser-known role in the slave trade. The narrative, told through the perspective of a native, provides a powerful and unique historical insight.
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Post by Chiemego Nwokolo »

Fictional Historical books, especially ones as detailed as this is a must read. The life of Columbus is painted in a different light. Thank you for the beautiful review, it gave sufficient insight into the book and I’ll definitely read this any chance I get.
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Rupali Mishra
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Post by Rupali Mishra »

Congrats on BOTD!
In a wise move, the author has altered the global perception of Columbus by referencing an African proverb. We'll have to finish this book to learn more about that time, as every story has two sides.
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Gerry Steen
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Post by Gerry Steen »

Christopher Columbus had two jobs; one to explore and find gold, the other to capture indigenous people and trade them as slaves. This fictional historic account of the events in Hispaniola will reveal to you the truth about the slave trade and the mistreatment of indigenous people from 1492 on.
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Post by Abdul Qadir 11 »

wonderful book
ABDUL QADIR
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MAHAD BAIG MIRZA
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Post by MAHAD BAIG MIRZA »

Your review excellently highlights the unique perspective of using a native narrator, Guarocuya, to tell the story, which adds depth and authenticity to the historical events depicted. You also commendably focus on the lesser-known aspect of Columbus as a slave trader, shedding light on a controversial part of history. Your appreciation for the character's loyalty and bravery, as well as the flawless editing of the book, shows your keen attention to detail. Great job !
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Post by Amanda Brouillette Gladden »

This sounds more accurate than what is taught in school, or at least what I was taught. Although this isn't the book for me, I commend the author for taking their time to research and incorporate historical evidence in a fictional story.
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Post by Tars »

OK, I might be fascinated with Historical Fiction as a genre, because I find it interesting and educational to see the days past and discover parallels with the modern world, but the slave trade is certainly taking it too far. Granted, I am not naive enough to believe that profitable business will be dropped no matter how dirty it is, but I have no desire to delve into it. Apologies and still congrats!
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Lorna Kimondo
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Post by Lorna Kimondo »

Thank you for sharing your enthusiastic and thoughtful review. I’m particularly struck by your praise for Guarocuya’s character and his dedication to his people. This seems like a great read, you have piqued my interest!
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Post by Sarah Zain »

The review is enjoyable and gives a clear picture of the book. Presenting history from a different point of view, far from constants, especially for a well-known historical line. This increases the desire to know more about that period. Congrats on BOTD!
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Post by Alida Spies »

I only ever knew Columbus as an explorer and it's quite shocking to discover he was a slave trader. It seems that all slave traders treated slaves abominably, but 80 out of 500 survivors is a travesty. Thank you for your informative review.
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Cristina-Ioana Toader
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Post by Cristina-Ioana Toader »

Thank you for your thoughtful and comprehensive review of "Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson. Your recognition of Guarocuya's loyalty and the fluid storytelling highlights the profound effect of the book.
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Post by Tobi Hannah Ayo »

Despite the slower pace of news in Columbus' time, Marc Wilson's writing highlights that themes such as religion, politics, geographic influence, the quest for wealth, human trafficking, the search for personal significance, and the desire for belonging remain relevant throughout history.
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Post by ken4512 »

I've read "Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson, and I liked this historical fiction very much. The world-building in this novel is extraordinary because the author weaves together the actual historical facts with the fiction.
It turned into a compelling read for me, and I learned a great deal about the history of the fate of the Tainos and the terrible impact of Columbus' discovery and attempts to settle the island of Hispaniola.
Great review -- thank you.
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