Rating: 
Summary: A true classic
Review: One word cannot describe this book. Margaret Walker captured the essence of one woman's struggle that represented so many during a period when freedom was an elusive dream. It would take a war and many deaths before African Americans became liberated, only to realize later that the chains of oppression were still evident just manifested in other ways. In JUBILEE, Vyry is born into slavery as a result of a relationship between her mother, Hetta, and the white plantation owner, "Marster Dutton." After Hetta's death, Vyry would be placed in the mansion as a servant to the owners and their children. Her mulatto coloring would elevate her above the station of a regular field hand and qualify her to work in the "Big House." While in the "Big House," Vyry would be subjected to almost daily abuse from the "Big Missy." Sometimes her only peace of mind would come from some of the older slave women who worked in the house. But when they all finally died, leaving her all alone, Vyry starts directing her own life and dreams, even daring to find love with a free black man.Margaret Walker's JUBILEE is one of the best book written on witnessing the brutalities, triumphs and struggles of African Americans before, during and after the Civil War. In a true account from her ancestors, Walker has written a riveting tale of life as a slave. Her main character, the focal point of the book, is one that left this reader in tears from the hatred she received, but spellbound at the compassion she showed to her abusers. I was captivated by the love she showed for her husband and the stamina she possessed to keep the family and the dream alive. This novel is a fine testament to the life that our forefathers suffered in the pursuit of freedom and should be required reading for all African Americans. Reviewed by Brenda M. Lisbon
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
Rating:
Summary: Great book!
Review: This is a book about the horrors of slavery within the American history and the strong willed people who survived. I must have used a box of tissues while taking off a few days from work to read this book. Vyry is a very strong and powerful woman who has seen more pain and suffering than most of us can ever imagine, and still she does not know hate or defeat in her own heart. You will root for her and for her freedom, but when freedom is achieved it is not what it seems to be. After the slaves are finally free, they have to overcome famine, sickness and most of all hate. A powerful novel which will make you wonder "How could something like this possibly happen?" I would suggest this book to anybody who is interested in American and/or African American history.
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