"How The Word Is Passed" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the legacy of slavery in America. Through a series of vivid and evocative essays, author Clint Smith takes readers on a journey across the United States, visiting sites that are deeply connected to the history of slavery and its aftermath. From Monticello to Angola Prison, Smith offers a nuanced and insightful look at the ways in which slavery has shaped our country and continues to impact our lives today. With a clear-eyed and compassionate approach, "How The Word Is Passed" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and ongoing legacy of slavery in America.

The book explores the concept of "neoslavery," which entrapped thousands of African Americans in the South in a system of forced labor after the Civil War. This system was perpetuated by local laws, racial prejudice, and economic manipulation, where black men were arrested on false charges, then sold to companies as cheap labor. The book illuminates the forgotten history of this "age of neoslavery" that persisted into the 20th century and its profound impact on the racial disparities that exist today.

"Empire of Cotton" by Sven Beckert is a comprehensive global history of cotton, exploring its impact on the world economy, politics, and society from the 18th century to the present day. Beckert argues that cotton played a crucial role in the development of capitalism, colonialism, and imperialism, and that its production and trade were intimately linked to the exploitation of labor, the growth of slavery, and the rise of industrialization. The book offers a fascinating and thought-provoking perspective on the complex and often violent history of cotton and its enduring legacy in the modern world.

The novel is a vivid and surreal exploration of the American experience during the Civil War era, following the life of Liberty Fish, a young man born to abolitionist parents. As Liberty comes of age, he is drawn into the tumultuous events of his time, embarking on a journey that takes him from his upstate New York home to the deep South, where he confronts the brutal realities of slavery and war. The narrative weaves a tapestry of history and fantasy, examining themes of identity, heritage, and the inescapable nature of violence in the shaping of American culture.

"Grant" is a comprehensive biography of the 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow, the book explores Grant's early life, military career, presidency, and post-presidential years. Chernow portrays Grant as a complex and often misunderstood figure, highlighting his military genius and leadership during the Civil War, as well as his struggles with alcoholism and financial ruin later in life. The book also delves into Grant's relationships with his wife, Julia, and political figures such as Abraham Lincoln and William Tecumseh Sherman. Overall, "Grant" offers a detailed and nuanced portrait of one of America's most significant historical figures.

"Crossing The River" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the lives of African diaspora through multiple generations and continents. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book delves into themes of slavery, identity, and the search for belonging. From the harrowing journey of an enslaved African woman to the struggles of her descendants in the present day, the novel offers a powerful examination of the enduring impact of history and the complexities of human connections.

"On Juneteenth" is a memoir by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annette Gordon-Reed that explores the history and significance of Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Gordon-Reed reflects on her own experiences growing up in Texas and the ways in which Juneteenth has been celebrated and politicized over time. She also delves into the complex legacy of slavery and racism in America, offering a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of this important holiday and its ongoing relevance.

"Rough Crossings" is a historical account of the experience of African American slaves during the American Revolution. It focuses on the British promise to grant freedom to slaves who joined their cause, and the subsequent journey of these former slaves to Nova Scotia and Sierra Leone. The book explores the complexities of this period in history, questioning the traditional narrative of the American Revolution and shedding light on the struggle for freedom and equality by African Americans.

"The Problem of Slavery in Western Culture" is a comprehensive historical analysis of the cultural, moral, and intellectual dilemmas slavery posed to Western society. The book explores the paradox of a freedom-loving society that also allowed and justified human bondage, tracing the evolution of thought on slavery from ancient times to the late eighteenth century. It delves into the ways in which different societies have rationalized and confronted slavery, including religious, philosophical, and political perspectives, ultimately leading to the abolitionist movements.

This novel follows the story of a freed slave and thief, who stows away on a ship to escape his debts and a forced marriage, only to find he has boarded a slave ship bound for Africa. The protagonist's journey takes a turn when the crew revolts, kills the captain, and the ship becomes lost at sea. The book explores themes of identity, freedom, and personal transformation, all set against the grim backdrop of the transatlantic slave trade.

"The Freedom Maze" by Delia Sherman is a time-travel adventure story about a thirteen-year-old girl named Sophie who is sent back in time to the year 1860. Sophie, who is half African-American and half white, finds herself living on a Louisiana plantation where she is mistaken for a slave. As she struggles to survive in her new environment, she learns about the harsh realities of slavery and the importance of fighting for freedom. With the help of some unexpected allies, Sophie embarks on a dangerous journey to find her way back to her own time while also confronting the injustices of the past.

"Theory of War" is a historical novel that tells the story of a young boy who, after the Civil War, is sold by his impoverished mother to a distant cousin as a form of bonded labor. The novel explores the harsh realities of his life as a "white slave" in Kansas, and his struggle for freedom and identity. It also delves into the psychological and societal implications of this form of slavery, presenting a powerful commentary on the human capacity for cruelty and resilience.

"Neither Black Nor White" is a comprehensive historical analysis of racial relations in Brazil and the United States. The book compares and contrasts the racial policies and societal attitudes in the two countries, arguing that Brazil's more fluid concept of race and less rigid segregation policies have resulted in a significantly different racial climate compared to the United States. The author uses historical data and sociological studies to support these claims, providing an in-depth look at the complexities of race relations in both countries.

This book provides an in-depth look at the life and political career of Charles Sumner, a prominent abolitionist and U.S. Senator during the years leading up to the American Civil War. It explores Sumner's passionate advocacy for the abolition of slavery, his role in the formation of the Republican party, and his influence on American politics during this turbulent period in history. The book also includes a detailed account of the infamous incident in which Sumner was physically attacked on the Senate floor by a pro-slavery congressman, an event that further escalated tensions between the North and South.

This book explores Abraham Lincoln's complex relationship with the institution of slavery, tracing his evolution from a moderate who sought to gradually abolish slavery to a radical who believed in immediate emancipation. It delves into his personal, political, and public life, his speeches, and his private correspondence to reveal a man grappling with the moral, legal, and social implications of slavery in a nation founded on the principle of freedom. The book provides a detailed examination of Lincoln's role in the abolition of slavery and the Civil War, offering a nuanced understanding of his legacy.

"The Internal Enemy: Slavery and War in Virginia, 1772-1832" examines the impact of slavery and war on Virginia from the late 18th to early 19th century. It highlights the role of slaves who sought freedom by allying with British forces during the War of 1812, causing a significant internal threat to the slaveholding society. The book also explores the aftermath of these events, including the tightening of slave laws and the increasing fear of slave rebellions.