elsdraeger 's review for:

12 Years a Slave by Solomon Northup

4.0

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Given how long ago this book was written I was surprised how readable it is. When I initially started reading it I only made it to the 3rd chapter, but when I picked it up again this week I finished it within 2 days. It gives a depressing and harrowing view into life in the Southern States of America in the 1800s and the author is incredibly understanding of the people who treated him and his friends so badly. Although things turn out well for him in the end, I have been left with overwhelming sadness that for the other people who were enslaved with him there was to be no such rescue.

I chose not to watch the film and bought the book instead. Having read it I am no nearer to wanting to see the film, but I am very glad that it brought the book to my attention.