Celebrating Black History Month at the VCU Libraries
Reviewed by Patricia Selinger, Preservation Librarian
When was the last time you rushed home to read a book? When was the last time you couldn't wait to read what happened next, made notes of places and people, and followed up on references? Bound for Canaan was all this and more for me. The author made history come alive! I knew little of the Underground Railroad and what I knew was so shallow I felt I had cheated myself by not learning more sooner. Forever I will carry in my heart the spirit of those who sacrificed for their belief in freedom and knowledge for all people. This is a very uplifting book.
The author makes history very personal. Each person's biography and struggles are skillfully woven into the history of slavery and development of the Underground Railroad. Chapters are divided by decades 1830 through 1850 after an introduction covering 1800-1820. The author relied on primary source material for his extensive research into the routes, financial links, personal connections, and thoughts of those he writes about. He has a website at http://www.fergusbordewich.com/ with more information.
