Title: Roots: The Saga of an American Family
Author: Alex Haley
First published August 17, 1976
888 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780440174646 (ISBN10: 0440174643)
Rating: 4.44
Overview
In This Sky, Gemma Sayers finds herself lost in the aftermath of her failed relationship with a celebrity. After spending days drowning in self-pity, she decides it’s time to leave it all behind and start anew.
However, she’s faced with the challenge of being broke, homeless, and unemployed. Landon Young, a surfer and bartender, has his own set of worries and isn’t looking for a fairytale ending.
Despite their circumstances, Gemma and Landon find unexpected love in each other. This is a story about trust, hope, and the unexpected twists that life throws our way.
With moments of humor and introspection, This Sky is a beautiful tale of second chances and finding love when you least expect it.
About the Author
Alexander Murray Palmer Haley was a talented American writer who left an indelible mark on literature. His most famous works include Roots: The Saga of an American Family and The Autobiography of Malcolm X, which he co-authored with the civil rights leader himself.
Haley’s writing is a testament to his skill as a storyteller and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience. Through his work, he has inspired generations of readers to explore the rich and complex history of the United States.
Editoral Review
Roots: The Saga of an American Family by Alex Haley is a book that has become an American classic since its first edition in 1976. It chronicles the history of the authors family, beginning with Kunta Kinte, who was captured in Gambia and transported to America as a slave.
The book traces the familys journey through slavery, the Civil War, and Reconstruction, up to the present day. Alex Haleys writing style is raw and emotional, and he leaves no stone unturned in describing the horrors of slavery, including torture, rape, and lynching.
The book is a masterpiece of storytelling, taking its readers on a journey that is both heartbreaking and inspirational. Roots explores themes of family, identity, and the search for ones roots.
It also examines the theme of racial identity, and how the journey of the protagonist, Kunta Kinte, reflects the struggles of black Americans in their journey towards self-acceptance and empowerment. The books cultural significance is immense, as it was one of the first works of literature that explored the history of African Americans and the deeply ingrained impact of slavery on their identity and culture.
Haleys non-fiction account of his family history mainly focuses on Kunta Kinte, who becomes the starting point around which the story revolves. He is captured in Gambia and sold into slavery, and his journey is followed through generations of his family, including his daughter Kizzy and her son Chicken George.
Haley portrays each character with depth and compassion, highlighting their resilience and strength in the face of unimaginable adversity. The plot of the book is well-structured, although at times it can feel repetitive.
At over 700 pages, it is a lengthy read, but the authors writing style makes it a page-turner. The book is meticulously researched, and it offers a vividly detailed account of slavery, the slave trade, and the Civil War.
Overall, Roots is a beautifully crafted literary masterpiece that offers insight into the history of African Americans and their journey towards reclaiming their identity. It is a moving and powerful book that is still relevant today, as it explores the ongoing struggles of marginalized groups in America.
Anyone interested in American history, or who seeks to understand the complexities of race in America, should read this book. Rating: 4.5/5
