Books matching: moral dilemma of slavery

12 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 12 
  1. #1

    The Known World by Edward P. Jones
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    The Known World by Edward P. Jones is a historical novel set in antebellum Virginia, focusing on the lives of black slave owners and their slaves. The narrative weaves together individual sagas of freed slaves living between worlds, exploring the complexities of relationships between free and enslaved people before the Civil War. The story delves into the life of Henry Townsend, a black farmer turned slave owner, and his interactions with white slave owners, shedding light on the brutal realities of slavery through vivid characterizations and detailed descriptions of plantation life.

    The evening his master died he worked again well after he ended the day for the other adults, his own wife among them, and sent them back with hunger and tiredness to their cabins. The young ones, his...

  2. #2

    A Respectable Trade by Philippa Gregory
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    'A Respectable Trade' by Philippa Gregory tells the story of Mehuru, a priest from the African kingdom of Yoruba, who is captured by white slavers from England and brought to Bristol during the height of the slave trade. Meanwhile, Frances Scott, a landless woman seeking employment, ends up marrying a shipping merchant named Josiah Cole, who is involved in the slave trade. Frances is faced with the moral dilemma of coming to terms with the reality of slavery as she interacts with the African slaves that Josiah intends to train and sell as house servants. explores themes of social class, wealth, race, love, and the dehumanizing effects of the slave trade, all written in a suspenseful and historically accurate manner.

    MEHURU WOKE AT DAWN with the air cool on his outstretched body. He opened his eyes in the half darkness and sniffed the air as if the light wind might bring him some strange scent. His dream, an uneas...

  3. #3

    A Journey of Black and Red - Journey of Black and Red by Alex Gilbert
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    'A Journey of Black and Red' by Alex Gilbert follows the awakening of the main character, Ariane, into a world filled with supernatural beings, magic, and power. Blighted by an overwhelming thirst, she navigates through unfamiliar territory, facing creatures she doesn't understand. The story delves deep into the classical portrayal of vampires as predators struggling to maintain their territories in an untamed country while battling the beast within. Set in the post-revolutionary American South, the plot introduces a mix of vampires, dwarves, werewolves, and fae, adding complexity to the gothic vampire narrative.

    Ariane's journey is a blend of existential questions, politics, action, and a vivid depiction of her life. explores themes of maintaining honor and humanity amidst the demands of her nature and the madness of her bloodline. With a well-researched history and language, the story balances action scenes with character-driven moments, creating a gritty and immersive reading experience.


  4. #4

    The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier
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    'The Last Runaway' by Tracy Chevalier is a historical fiction novel set in 1850s America, following the journey of Honor Bright, a young Quaker woman from England. The book explores themes of Quaker culture, the Underground Railroad, and Honor's struggles as she navigates a new life in Ohio after the death of her sister. The writing style captures the details of everyday life in rural Ohio, the complexities of human engagement, and the challenges Honor faces in upholding her principles in a changing society.

    SHE COULD NOT go back. When Honor Bright abruptly announced to her family that she would accompany her sister Grace to America—when she sorted through her belongings, keeping only the most necessary, ...

  5. #5

    Falling Free - Vorkosigan Saga by Lois McMaster Bujold
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    Set in the Vorkosigan Saga universe, 'Falling Free' by Lois McMaster Bujold delves into the origins of the genetically engineered quaddies, humans with arms instead of legs, who are created to live in a gravityless artificial habitat in space. The story follows Leo Graf, an engineer who befriends the quaddies and becomes entangled in a moral dilemma when the corporation that created them deems them obsolete. The writing style is described as clever, action-oriented, and straightforward, with a focus on moral dilemmas and social implications, all while maintaining an engaging and fast-paced narrative.

    The shining rim of the planet Rodeo wheeled dizzily past the observation port of the orbital transfer station. A woman whom Leo Graf recognized as one of his fellow disembarking passengers from the Ju...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Vorkosigan Saga )

  6. #6
    Beta
    Book 1 in the series:Annex

    Beta - Annex by Rachel Cohn
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    In the future, the inhabitants of Demesne are served by bioengineered clones. Elysia, a beta prototype of a teen clone, is purchased to work as a companion to a wealthy family. Despite being designed to be unfeeling, Elysia starts to develop emotions and dreams of freedom, all while hiding these feelings to avoid being classified as a defect. As Elysia navigates her newfound emotions and discovers hidden truths about Demesne, the story unfolds with twists and conflicts that set the stage for future books in the series.

    The book 'Beta' by Rachel Cohn explores themes of identity, freedom, and the ethical implications of using clones as slave labor. Set in a post-apocalyptic future, the story follows Elysia's journey of self-discovery as she grapples with her emerging emotions and desires for autonomy in a world where clones are expected to be obedient and emotionless. The writing style, though initially perceived as stiff by some, effectively conveys the growth and transformation of Elysia's character from a robotic clone to a defiant individual challenging the norms of her society.

    The fancy lady claims she came into the resort boutique looking to buy a sweater, but she can’t take her eyes off me. She wears a diamond-studded ivory silk suit perfectly tailored to her hourglass fi...

  7. #7
    Perfected
    Book 1 in the series:Perfected

    Perfected - Perfected by Kate Jarvik Birch
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    'Perfected' by Kate Jarvik Birch is a dystopian novel set in a future America where genetically altered teenage girls are bred and sold as pets to the wealthy. The story follows Ella, a pet who starts to realize her desire for freedom and human experiences, leading her to rebel against her dehumanizing existence. Birch explores themes of human dignity, morality, and the consequences of treating individuals as possessions through the unsettling narrative of a girl forced to live as a pampered pet.

    The book delves into the dark depths of a society where human beings are enslaved and dehumanized for the pleasure of the elite. Birch's writing style is described as gripping and thought-provoking, challenging readers to consider the implications of a world where individuals are treated as commodities. The plot unfolds with surprising twists and moments that evoke strong emotions, making readers question societal norms and the value of humanity.

    She stepped back and gazed at the group of us, her face pinched and stern like always, but I spotted a tiny glimmer of pride behind her rheumy eyes. Twenty girls, all lovely, demure, quiet. She was pl...

  8. #8

    Never Caught by Erica Armstrong Dunbar, Robin Miles
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    'Never Caught' by Erica Armstrong Dunbar is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of Ona Judge, a courageous woman who escaped from slavery in the household of George and Martha Washington. Through meticulous research and storytelling, Dunbar paints a vivid picture of Ona's struggles, determination, and pursuit of freedom. The book challenges the myths surrounding the institution of slavery and humanizes the individuals involved in this historical period, offering valuable insights into the complexities of early American slavery and the moral dilemmas faced by prominent figures like the Founding Fathers.

    Dunbar's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the injustices of slavery while also highlighting stories of hope and resilience. By bringing Ona Judge's narrative to life, the book sheds light on the untold stories of individuals who made a significant impact on American history, emphasizing the importance of remembering and learning from the past.

    The men and women who lived on George and Martha Washington’s estate must have marveled at the peculiar snow, but whatever excitement the unusual weather brought was most certainly replaced by concern...

  9. #9

    Lucifer's Hammer by Jerry Pournelle, Larry Niven
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    In "Lucifer's Hammer," a comet strikes the Earth, causing widespread destruction and chaos. The novel follows a diverse cast of characters, ranging from astronauts to street gang members, as they navigate the aftermath of the disaster. The book explores themes of survival, societal collapse, and the resilience of humanity in the face of catastrophic events. Written in a vintage science fiction style, the story delves into the actions and reactions of people as they struggle to rebuild civilization in a post-apocalyptic world.

    The bay trees in our country are all wither'd And meteors fright the fixed stars of heaven; The pale-faced moon looks bloody on the earth And lean-look'd prophets whisper fearful change. These signs f...

  10. #10

    Tempests and Slaughter - The Numair Chronicles by Tamora Pierce
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    'Tempests and Slaughter' by Tamora Pierce is a young adult fantasy novel that delves into the life of Arram Draper, a young mage student at the Imperial University of Carthak. The book follows Arram's journey as he navigates the complexities of mage academy culture, makes friends and enemies, and learns new magical concepts such as talking to gods and infusing medicinal herbs with new strength. Set in the world of Tortall, the story provides insights into the early lives of familiar characters like Numair, Ozorne, and Varice, while exploring themes of friendship, authority, and the limits of power. The writing style is described as rich, immersive, and filled with intricate world-building that shines through the detailed portrayal of characters and settings.

    Arram Draper hung on the rail of the great arena, hoisting himself until his belly was bent over the polished stone. It was the only way he could get between the two bulky men who blocked his view. He...

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