Unspoken: Talking About Slavery

Kwame Alexander's "The Undefeated" is a powerful and poetic exploration of the story of slavery, from Africa to the tall ships, from back-breaking work in a strange land to resilience and eventual emancipation. Told through the lens of a teacher speaking to their young pupils, the story of slavery becomes one that you can tell with the bravery to lift your voice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 56 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Andersen Press Ltd

From the depths of Africa to the towering ships, from the back-breaking labor in a foreign land to the unwavering resilience and eventual emancipation, Kwame Alexander weaves a poignant and evocative narrative that is challenging to hear. Presented through the lens of a teacher engaging their young students, and employing a diverse range of artistic styles from acclaimed artist and sculptor Dare Coulter, the story of slavery transforms into a tale that can be conveyed with the courage to raise one's voice. This captivating book is a must-read for children and adults alike, serving as an ideal companion to Kwame Alexander's award-winning picture book, The Undefeated.

The journey of slavery begins in Africa, where men, women, and children are taken from their homes and sold into captivity. They are transported to different parts of the world, where they are forced to work in harsh conditions, without any rights or freedom. The slaves are treated as property, and their lives are completely controlled by their masters.

Despite the unimaginable hardships they endure, the slaves find ways to maintain their strength and pride. They form communities and support each other, creating a sense of belonging and resilience. They also find solace in their faith, which gives them hope and a reason to keep fighting.

As time passes, the slaves begin to dream of a better life. They hear stories of freedom and opportunity in other parts of the world, and they long for the day when they can be set free. They work tirelessly, hoping that one day their masters will see the value in them and grant them their freedom.

Finally, after years of struggle and sacrifice, the slaves are emancipated. They are given the chance to start new lives, free from the chains of slavery. They return to Africa, where they are welcomed with open arms by their communities. They use their newfound freedom to build schools, hospitals, and businesses, and they work to create a better future for themselves and their children.

The story of slavery is a powerful and emotional one. It is a reminder of the human capacity for resilience and perseverance, even in the face of the most difficult circumstances. It is also a reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion, and the need to fight for the rights and dignity of all people.

Kwame Alexander's book, The Undefeated, tells the story of slavery in a way that is accessible and engaging for children. It uses a variety of artistic styles, including poetry and illustrations, to convey the emotions and experiences of the slaves. The book also highlights the resilience and strength of the slaves, and the importance of their communities and faith.

In conclusion, the story of slavery is a complex and emotional one that has had a profound impact on the world. Kwame Alexander's book, The Undefeated, provides a powerful and engaging way to learn about this important part of history. It is a must-read for all children and adults, and a reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Weight: 332g
Dimension: 255 x 255 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839133404