Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass (Black Narratives)

Let's face it. Most of the history I read is written by white people. Some things need to be read in the "first person" and this is one of them. Not only is it a landmark book (not just for it's time but for all time), it is still easy to read, believable, compassionate to all (including slave owners) and completely gripping. It is not too brutally descriptive to be disturbing to any older kids or teens I know, and it is a patient, instructive and compelling story that I believe could still be a powerful, memorable and life changing read for anyone. Personal Note: I went to Maryland public schools in the 70's and early 80's. This was not on my required reading list. I wish it had been, but then maybe I would have hated it. The story of Frederick Douglas is to me overwhelming. The indictment of Southern Christianity is also particularly grievous. I do feel like I'm beginning to get a sense of the longtime North - South cultural divide as a matter of regional . . . religious . . . and economic ... pride. Misc Notes: 1. Brer Rabbit - in the intro to my book - Robert O'Meally mentions Brer Rabbit and Disney's now banned (and well censored) in the USA "Song Of The South" movie (think "Zip-A-De-Do-Da") - I don't have any wisdom on this but Brer Rabbit is a vaguely forbidden character in our country, as is Bugs Bunny, who the writer indentifies as a modern day Brer Rabbit. I always liked Bugs Bunny, but you don't see these cartoons around. I have an older African American friend who asked me if I could find a copy of "Song of the South" which he had fond memories of watching in the movie theater as a kid. Well I couldn't . . . 2. In my appendix, there is mention of pro slavery arguements of the 1840's. One is to the effect of "Slavery itself doesn't hurt slaves . . . its the abuse of slavery by slaveholders that hurts slaves." Hmmm, that sounds familiar . . .

I found this book, though historic, to be a modern marvel. I find not only the man himself but even more so the writings of Frederick Douglass to be totally FASCINATING! This man's ability to describe the various monstrosities encountered throughout his journey in such a beautiful, articulate, and eloquent way is utterly GENIUS! In reading this timeless masterpiece I discovered that this man bears the unmatched, undisputed spirit of a champion; the undying essence of a true warrior that I'm sure would resonate to any and every reader who would be so bold as to take a glance at the greatness that lies between the pages of this work of genius. This man's profound desire to acquire knowledge and educate himself by whatever means necessary exudes a ground shaking, bone rattling determination as I have scarcely; if at all, ever heard of. Frederick Douglass is to me the epitome of class and integrity and can serve as a role model and an inspiration to anyone in search of an incentive to better themselves, even or ESPECIALLY in the face of adversity. In this BRILLIANT account of his heroic journey from slavery to freedom he bestows a wisdom; a very keen insight, and he embodies an honor, the likes of which I have never seen in ANY other writer. I HIGHLY recommend this book to ANYBODY who is in search of inspiration or just a GREAT read!

As society moves about, the slavery of the past remains alive and well. "Sweep it under the rug and do not bring it up" is the mindset of many. This type of suppression is often brought about because of the known guilt of an unfair past. American slavery has deep roots, reading the life of Fredrick Douglass, will help unveil some of the true history of America. At one point in the book Douglass realized he had past the time of being an indentured servant and knew that being a slave for life was his fate. He was treated with little if no respect. Douglass described Mr. Severe, one of his "masters", as a man who would whip a slave for almost no reason at all (22). Dougless illustrated that Mr. Severe had no respect for his slaves, but treated them as if they were not human. Many people may think that Douglass story was the exception, but that's not the case. Many times through out the book Douglass spoke of other slave's punishment as far worse than his own. He even recorded the murder of two slaves in Talbot, Maryland and stated that the slave owner never paid for the crime (31-33). This type of abuse almost seems unfathomable, but it's reality. Studying the origins of slavery can allow us to see the disgusting progression of the enslavement of human life and stripping of human character. Douglass' narrative provides the reader with a glimpse into the life of a slave. The emotional state of Douglass was strong, considering the abuse that he underwent during his life. The narrative of Fredrick Douglass is a superb read for anyone wanting to get a first hand understanding of the life of an American slave.

If you enjoy exquisitely beautiful writing about horrific, true experiences, you will enjoy this book as much as I did. It was particularly sad because it occurred close to my childhood home and not very long ago. Frederick Douglass is an inspiration for nobility, courage and daring determination. Today’s lifestyle feels so gaudy and hideously audacious in comparison to his. Human nature is a true conundrum.

Everyone should read this book, fantastic history

Es un tema que me interesa mucho, sin embargo el estilo de escribirlo es un poco pesado para leer, aunque comprensible!

I totally loved the book. This one is a true story and written by a slave himself who lived through the slavery. In my mind this is something one has to read! The book is thin but it’s a really big format which is the only thing I didn’t like.

I absolutely love this book. I ordered it because I had to for uni but really this book is great + it's easy to read.

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass is probably the most enlightening autobiography I've ever read. The author escaped from the barbarian clutches of slavery. He describes his life, including what all he and the slaves around him went through. I read this book as part of my course. I'm actually surprised I had never heard of this book before. It's one of the first accounts of someone who escaped from being a slave. After reading Beloved by Toni Morrison, I had to read this and I'm glad I did.