Review of Columbus, Slave Trader

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Nwachukwu Somto
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Review of Columbus, Slave Trader

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[Following is a volunteer review of "Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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"Columbus, Slave Trader" by Marcus Wilson is a historical fiction novel narrated primarily from a first-person perspective. It chronicles Admiral Columbus' journey and his interactions with the natives of Hispaniola. The book, while fictional, is said to be historically accurate, informing readers about the actions of Admiral Columbus and his crew, particularly their involvement in the slave trade and other negative deeds. Through the conversations between characters, readers gain insight into the natives' feelings and fears, the nature of the environment at the time, and the role of religion in these events.
 
I appreciated that the dialogues were clear, helping me understand the interactions between characters, the journeys that took place, the thoughts of the natives, and the motivations behind their actions. This clarity effectively conveyed the author's intent to inform, making the narrative engaging and enlightening.
 
The book enhanced my understanding of the role of religion in the historical context, adding to my prior knowledge. It also provided insight into the discrimination that occurred centuries ago, allowing me to compare it with contemporary issues and trace its origins. This is knowledge that many should possess. The depictions of loyalty and bravery among some natives were compelling, particularly the defense against assault, which, despite its sadness, was a significant part of the narrative.
 
While the book contains some distressing accounts that may be triggering for individuals who have experienced oppression, I appreciated the wealth of knowledge and the proficient writing style. I found only one error while reading. Due to these positives and the lack of significant drawbacks, I rate the book 5 out of 5.
 
This book is highly recommended to readers interested in historical fiction, particularly those keen on learning about the darker aspects of Columbus' journeys and their impact on native populations. It is also suitable for those who appreciate well-researched historical narratives and want to deepen their understanding of the historical context of colonization and its repercussions. However, readers sensitive to topics of oppression and violence should approach them with caution.

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Columbus, Slave Trader
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