Levy, Andrea. The Long Song

This book is in our library.
A sample from this excellent source----


http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6726801.html?nid=3288

Levy, Andrea. The Long Song. Farrar. May 2010. c.320p. ISBN 978-0-374-95086-6. $26. F

Having survived the extremes of brutality and privilege, and now at an advanced age, the former slave named Miss July is compelled to share the story of her life. Her grown son, a well-educated gentleman and a printer by trade, frames the story as he gently informs the reader of Miss July's headstrong ways. Powerless throughout most of her life, Miss July now clearly enjoys the opportunity to embellish—and to edit—her story however she wishes. Born to a Jamaican field slave in the 1820s, she tells heart-wrenching tales from her years on the Amity sugar plantation. As for the British plantation owners, their tendencies toward folly and self-delusion pave the way for the slave revolt known as the Baptist Wars of 1831. Even the best-intentioned whites who come to the island to fight for abolition end up succumbing to the intense Jamaican heat and the madness of the constant struggle for power. VERDICT As Levy proved in her Orange Prize-winning Small Island, her particular ability lies in giving voice to her characters. Her fifth novel is a stunning portrait of slavery and resilience that will stay with the reader long after the last page has been turned. Highly recommended for readers of historical fiction. [See Prepub Alert, LJ 1/10.]—Susanne Wells, P.L. of Cincinnati & Hamilton Cty.

see also:

Murakami, Ryu. Audition