Powerful story that everyone should hear

A beautifully read story of Solomon Northup that grips the reader from the very start. The characters were so well described that I could visualise them and the scenes clearly. I am glad it was made into a movie too as it is important that the harsh history of slavery reaches as many people as possible. In the current times, we often forget the fights that happened for us to enjoy freedom. We need to be constantly reminded.

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1 person found this helpful

12 years of hell

Would you listen to Twelve Years a Slave again? Why?

An amazing book that makes you realise how fortunate in life you are and not to take things for granted. The book is of course much better than the film!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Twelve Years a Slave?

Patsy's beating for such a trivial matter

Have you listened to any of Hugh Quarshie’s other performances? How does this one compare?

First time

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I listened to it going to bed and listened to it several times. It's a very emotional subject.

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Amazing

When starting to read this book I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to understand a lot of it, being English my second language and this having been written so long ago. I was wrong.

I have to say this is the best written book I’ve had the pleasure of reading. Everything is beautifully phrased. Concise, powerful, easily understandable. Amazing.

The story is extremely moving and relevant even to this day

My new favourite book

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Never watched the film but I will now

For some reason this film never appealed to me, but I’m thoroughly glad I listened to this audio book. Extremely well written and narrated.

Brings to life the harrowing experience of those subjected to the slave trade, yet also inspiring to know that someone can go through all that cruelty and survive with dignity, to see freedom, and as a well educated man be able to write about his experience to ensure it is not lost from mankind’s unsavoury history.

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Thought provoking read.

What made the experience of listening to Twelve Years a Slave the most enjoyable?

The narrator sounded like he really was Solomon, which made the story even more poignant. It makes you realise how vicious the white people in the South were to the black slaves.

What did you like best about this story?

The way he introduced people and gave an explanation of the pertinence of that person in advance so that he didn't have to do it when they actually appeared in the story, to keep your interest in what was happening.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

His escape through the marsh.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Parts of the book made me cry. I laughed when he gave the overseer a good whack! Also made me ashamed of the white people and how they abused these poor people. Shocked that they could get away with abducting educated and free black people so easily.

Any additional comments?

I am glad he did manage to get free and was able to tell his story. Solomon managed to make light of his situation in some places despite the gravity. I imagine it taught him a lot about himself and about his fellow men. It was a cruel world, and I'm sure it still goes on to an extent. A good read which I found hard to put down.

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6 people found this helpful

12 years a slave

I cried, I laughed and was angry for the injustice and cruelty. Unfortunately, slavery is still around in one way or the other.

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Heart felt

Thank goodness for the abolishment of slavery.
I have seen the film but wanted to hear this in Solomon’s words.
It really shows the greed and inhumanity of some people. I can not comprehend under any circumstances that people can be so cruel towards another human being or an animal for that matter..
But an excellent book and very well read.

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A horrible story very well told

It’s unbelievable to hear about slavery and the dehumanising nature of slaves’ treatment. This excellent autobiography was very well told, conveying the horrors of Solomon Northup’s life without sounding sensationalist.

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Everyone should listen to this at least once.

An incredible insight into the abhorrent institution that was the American slave trade. And the amazing and inspiring resolve, determination and dignity of one man and those who sought to honour and help their fellow human.

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Engrossing book,very moving and informative.

Would you listen to Twelve Years a Slave again? Why?

No, i rarely listen to books again as so many more to read!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Solomon Northup, who endured 12 years of hell but somehow found the strength to keep going.

Have you listened to any of Hugh Quarshie’s other performances? How does this one compare?

No. I enjoyed the narration.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

A tale of endurance.

Any additional comments?

Fantastic book, moves me to tears to listen to it.

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