Christine recommends - The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation

The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation

by M.T. Anderson

This is a truly extraordinary novel. It tells the tale of an African slave, that as part of a scientific experiment, is raised in Colonial America with the finest of classical educations. The result of this education in Octavian’s consequent life induces us to explore the issues of slavery, imprisonment and freedom. This is the first time I have been interested in the history of colonial America due to the clear and authentic voice of this author. As I read I always believed that what I was experiencing was a possible reality, and a universal one at that.

Several parts of this book are challenging (like the dense first 25 pages or so), but well worth the effort. As a bonus the hardcover presentation is beautiful and only $24.95. A late runner for my favourite book of the year.

Ages 16 to adult.