Washington Black: A novel by Esi Edugyan

Washington Black is a captivating novel by Giller Prize and Rogers Writer’s Trust Fiction Prize winner Esi Edugyan. The story follows a young slave named Washington Black who, under the guidance of his master’s brother, is able to escape his servitude and embark on an epic journey across the globe. In this powerful story of freedom, friendship, and discovery, Washington must grapple with difficult questions about identity, loyalty, and his place in the world.

The novel follows Washington Black, an 11-year-old slave on a plantation in 1830s Barbados. After an act of accidental heroism, Washington is unexpectedly taken in by his master’s brother, Christopher Wilde. Under Wilde’s guidance, Washington takes on the responsibility of engineering a hot air balloon called the Cloud-cutter and joins a daring expedition to seek out the innermost reaches of the Arctic Circle. With the help of a mysterious Inuit guide and a newfound bond with Wilde, Washington navigates the harsh and unpredictable world of the North.

On their journey, Washington and his companions explore the unexplored and discover strange and exotic creatures and landscapes. As he challenges himself physically and intellectually, Washington questions his role as a black man in an era of imperialism. He uncovers a powerful link with the past, struggling with his desire for freedom, as well as a deep bond with Wilde that challenges his understanding of the things he once thought he knew.

Throughout the novel, Washington’s story twists through multiple continents and cultures, and his experiences challenge his perception of race and the roles he can play in the world. With Edugyan’s signature combination of vivid imagery and lyrical prose, Washington’s transformation is portrayed with poignancy, insight, and heart. Washington goes from being a slave to becoming a man of science, a lover, a traveler, and finally, a defender of freedom.

Washington Black is an enthralling and thought-provoking tale of a young man’s quest for freedom. Edugyan’s beautifully written story blends an intimate character study with a thrilling narrative, making it a powerful exploration of identity and power. Through Washington’s emotional journey, readers are presented with a difficult but essential examination of an era of racism and oppression as well as a celebration of friendship and discovery. Though confronting, Washington Black is ultimately a novel of hope and resilience, and one that will leave readers inspired by Washington’s journey.