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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Michael Gambo
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Re: Review of Columbus, Slave Trader

Post by Michael Gambo »

It's astonishing to learn about Columbus's involvement in the slave trade, a fact that's often overlooked in history books. Marcus Wilson did an exceptional job of blending fact with fiction, making the narrative both educational and engaging.
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Michael Gambo
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Post by Michael Gambo »

Abraham Ozo wrote: 01 Aug 2024, 01:44 Columbus, Slave Trader by Marcus Wilson unveils the dark side of Columbus’s voyage through the eyes of Guarocuya, offering a historically accurate portrayal of his actions.
I completely agree with you! Marcus Wilson's portrayal of Columbus through Guarocuya's eyes sheds light on a part of history that is often glossed over. The accuracy and depth of the narrative make it an eye-opening read.
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Post by Satyam Mishra 3 »

Columbus: Slave Trader: Well, Well, Well, The Villain gets His Feels Up.

The article Columbus, Slave Trader by Michael A. J. Wainwright focuses in understanding the effects of Columbus and more so on his slave trade business. This writing is an act of countering the scopic regimes that represent Columbus as virtuous and as an actor placed at the helm of the Indigenous people’s genocide and subjection.

The details are elaborated regarding Columbus and his deeds and policies and by reading this, the readers are informed of the ill-treatments and enslavement of the native Americans by Columbus. He attempts at expanding the histories of Indigenous people based on some crucial primary sources and describe the consequences of Columbus’ expeditions and the destinies of the European royalties.

Real issues are presented in a popular historical manner implying that where necessary, details that require a bit of background knowledge on the part of the reader are simplified for easier understanding. The rules for reading Wainwright’s work include perceiving Columbus differently and remembering the stagnation that came with colonialism, and slavery.

Therefore, “Columbus, Slave Trader” is a useful contribution to the debate of Columbus’s historical figure; as the poem proves, it is questionable to idealize history and present it as , though this discussion should definitely take place.
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Post by Shewaofafrica »

Marcus Wilson’s novel sheds light on an often-overlooked part of history, revealing Columbus as a slave trader. Guarocuya’s compelling narrative and the book's meticulous research make it a must-read for history enthusiasts.
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Post by Runan »

The author gives a fictional narrative of real historical events that occurred on Hispaniola. We all know Columbus as an explorer, but he traded slaves when he didn't get gold. Read about the not widely known part of history and Tainos suffering.
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Post by Rav K 2 »

I haven't read the book yet, but after reading the book description I'm quite intrigued to read how Columbus started as a slave himself and then subsequently embarked in a slave trade.
For me, Colombus have always been a name which is associated with extraordinary voyages and exploration of some of the important geographical locations. I think this book will give me a whole new perspective about the extraordinary voyage of the Christopher Columbus.
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Post by Sylveria Savage »

This book is a game-changer in how we think about Columbus and his legacy, offering a nuanced and balanced perspective that's long overdue
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Post by Nerea »

Historical fiction are usually interesting and educational. I am interested to read the book to find out how "Guarocuya, a native of Hispaniola," sounds in a story narration. I just hope the story isn't too emotional and painful.... congratulations on being the BOTD.
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Post by Ingalwa Eugine »

I love historical fiction, and this is definitely my next read. Indeed, I have read about Admiral Columbus the Explorer, but the issue of the slave trade is new and intriguing enough. I love this comprehensive review, and I look forward to enjoying as much as you did.
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Post by Rodel Barnachea »

I am fascinated by the true historical events that transpired in Hispaniola between 1493 and 1495.
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Post by Dan Polumbric »

Columbus, Slave Trader by Marcus Wilson is an in depth look at one of the most controversial historical figures in history. This is a work of historical fiction that tries to convey the experience of suffering by the Natives of the Caribbean as they were enslaved by Christopher Columbus' crew. It does this through a 1st person viewpoint of one of these slaves as he was brought across the Atlantic to Spain. Despite some historic liberties as explained in the preface, the novel has a gripping, emotional flow and is well edited. There's lessons to be learned from these tragic chapters of history about stopping exploitation of people and the environment.
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Post by Ohanele Chinonyerem »

I like that the book is a true historical event , and it will enlighten readers on what happened in Hispaniola between 1493 and 1495 and how inhumanly the Tainos were treated by the Columbus.
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Post by Stephen Christopher 1 »

I love historical fiction. This one is sure to raise a few eyebrows, especially for those who view Columbus as a hero. I applaud the author's concept of writing the book through the eyes of someone who may have lived it.
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Post by Adam Bryce Stern »

An interesting historical fiction that is indeed historic and offers an alternate perspective on the transatlantic slave trade. Great read. Congrats on #BOTD
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Post by Atieno Magero »

I like that this book provides a more historically correct version of Christopher Columbus's story. Most people do not know the accurate events of Columbus's expeditions and this book showcases that. The story may be fictional but the historical elements are factual.
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