Review of The Broken Harmonica

Naushin Moledina · Post by **Naushin Moledina** » 22 Nov 2024, 00:32

“The Broken Harmonica” by Samuel K. Leonard is a profoundly moving historical fiction that follows Cornelius Wright, an African American born into slavery in 1833, through harrowing injustices, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. With themes of resilience, racism, and family legacy, this well-written and emotive story leaves a lasting impact. Thank you for an amazing review!

Post by **Seamstress** » 22 Nov 2024, 00:44

In my opinion, the book gives an interesting perspective on one of the darkest periods of human history. Slavery is shameful and till this day I simply can't understand how society claiming to believe in God could stand so low and approve such horrible cruelty.

Post by **Alichi** » 22 Nov 2024, 00:46

The Broken Harmonica by Samuel K. Leonard is an emotionl account of Cornelius Wright’s life, spanning slavery and war. Congratulations on BOTD.

Post by **Atieno Magero** » 22 Nov 2024, 00:48

This is a thought provoking and touching book that highlights the cruelty and injustices of slavery. It seems like a heavy read but I'd like to read it to find out what will happen to Cornelius.

Post by **Melisa Jane** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:05

This sounds like a very emotional book about slavery. Although it's very heart wrenching, I'm curious to find out what Cornelius Wright went through.

Lene Lena · Post by **Lene Lena** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:07

What a review! “The Broken Harmonica” profoundly captures the harrowing experiences of Cornelius Wright, illustrating the brutal realities of slavery through his eyes. Leonard’s portrayal evokes deep empathy, showcasing not only the pain but also the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable suffering. Leonard’s work is a powerful testament to history, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past while honoring those who endured such hardships.

Tars · Post by **Tars** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:12

There is so much written on the subject, so many detailed descriptions to display abnormality of justified violence brought on someone just because they look different, while everything was really motivated by greed. People love easy money and the Stanford Prison Experiment proved time and again how humans treat those who fall in their power. Apologies, but I prefer to pass.

Runan · Post by **Runan** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:12

The story revolves around African-American Cornelius in the 1800s. Born in a Georgian plantation, Cornelius life is filled with racial injustice and slavery. Later, he joined the Union army and returned home only to witness his son, Rocco's, lynching. A must-read book for people interested in history.

Nhlanhla Maduna · Post by **Nhlanhla Maduna** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:23

The review of "The Broken Harmonica by Samuel K. Leonard it's a eye opening story, about slavery and how Cornelius escaped slavery to freedom, also the traumatic experience he endured during the time, seeing his sister being sexually exploited which is something not pleasing to the eye but I salute Cornelius for his courage. It's a life lesson book for black people, what a good book

D Christina · Post by **D Christina** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:29

I am not a fan of historical fiction, so I don't think I'll be able to read and enjoy this book. However, thank you for your passionate review. I deeply sympathize with those who still face racial discrimination and violence today.

Post by **Ejimma Chika Promise** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:45

Sometimes, I wonder how the concept of slavery started and how slaves like Cornelius Wright were able to cope up to this time. Thanks for an interesting review.

Mary John 10 · Post by **Mary John 10** » 22 Nov 2024, 01:51

"The Broken Harmonica" is a heartbreaking story that brought me to tears. Cornelius Wright’s experiences are so vividly portrayed that it’s hard to imagine anyone surviving such horrors. I hope this story isn’t true because no one should have to endure such pain.

Phooko Tebogo PC · Post by **Phooko Tebogo PC** » 22 Nov 2024, 02:04

Slavery is such a terrible thing one can ever go through. I can't imagine the trauma it has left to those that got to experience it. What I love about such type of books is how they remind you to be grateful to of the life you have at this point in time.

Gayatri Tripathi · Post by **Gayatri Tripathi** » 22 Nov 2024, 02:28

Thank you for your thorough and heartfelt review of The Broken Harmonica. It’s evident how deeply the story of Cornelius Wright resonated with you, and your reflection on the era’s brutality brings the book’s themes into sharp focus. The fact that the narrative spans from slavery to Reconstruction and beyond demonstrates how systemic oppression evolves, and it’s powerful that the story includes the personal impact on Cornelius's family, such as the tragic lynching of his son. That scene alone sounds harrowing and incredibly emotional, emphasizing the cruelty of that time.

I appreciate your point about the book being a combination of several stories, making it lengthy but ultimately rewarding. It’s interesting how you mention that the overarching theme of resilience and the fight for dignity stands out, even in such a tragic narrative. Stories like this are essential for understanding history and fostering empathy. Your recommendation and detailed analysis make me eager to read this book despite the difficult subject matter. Thank you for sharing your perspective!

Abiodunakinola · Post by **Abiodunakinola** » 22 Nov 2024, 02:34

The book’s ability to vividly depict Cornelius’s life as a slave, a soldier, and a survivor offers readers a raw and deeply personal perspective on the systemic brutality of slavery and racial violence. Stories like these don’t just inform; they humanize history, making the pain, resilience, and courage of individuals like Cornelius unforgettable. Nice review.