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A review by nathanjhunt
Secret Diaries of Charles Ignatius Sancho by Paterson Joseph
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.75
This was my 7th book finished in 2024.
Having read slave narratives from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as diaries from the 17th and 18th centuries, I have to say that Joseph delivers an authentic and important book.
I will admit, I thought a bit more would happen. But I should be relieved and not disappointed that Sancho escaped some of the more brutal treatments black people received at this time.
I'd say this book was, surprisingly, a romance! I didn't think I would enjoy a book like that, but I was proven wrong.
It was so interesting to read about such a white-washed period of Britain. Even when you think a black man is free, he is not truly free. Sancho's referring to himself as a "caged bird" was perfect.
At times, I felt the book was slightly too long and slow-paced, but in retrospect, I think it was fine. I found it very easy to read, and flew through it. I feel my admiration for this book is growing over time.
For a debut novel, it is impressive. And Joseph clearly is very passionate and knowledgeable about Sancho. It was a delight to read.
Having read slave narratives from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as diaries from the 17th and 18th centuries, I have to say that Joseph delivers an authentic and important book.
I will admit, I thought a bit more would happen. But I should be relieved and not disappointed that Sancho escaped some of the more brutal treatments black people received at this time.
I'd say this book was, surprisingly, a romance! I didn't think I would enjoy a book like that, but I was proven wrong.
It was so interesting to read about such a white-washed period of Britain. Even when you think a black man is free, he is not truly free. Sancho's referring to himself as a "caged bird" was perfect.
At times, I felt the book was slightly too long and slow-paced, but in retrospect, I think it was fine. I found it very easy to read, and flew through it. I feel my admiration for this book is growing over time.
For a debut novel, it is impressive. And Joseph clearly is very passionate and knowledgeable about Sancho. It was a delight to read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Classism, and Slavery
Moderate: Xenophobia, Pedophilia, Suicide attempt, and Racial slurs
Minor: Alcohol, Death, and Fatphobia