I was interested read this account as my white British grandfather was a superintendent for Booker in Hastings, Guyana in the 1930s. The author has gone to considerable trouble to chart his search, providing substantial background information whilst researching his roots. It’s a comprehensive read, dogged down with information which I didn’t expect and to be honest too historical. Regrettably I didn’t enjoy it, and found it tough reading. That said it may well appeal to those with stronger links to Guyana.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC for reviewing.

Searching for My Slave Roots follows the author, Malik Al Nasir as he traces the roots of his family. His has mixed parentage with a black father and a white mother. The story of his ancestors is one of slavery and takes place in both Liverpool and Demerara. In Guyana, he finds his ancestors were both enslaved Africans and prominent white slaveholders. This book opens new conversations around slavery and the importance of learning its history.

This is a really important non fiction work on slavery and this man’s personal journey. I found the first part the most impactful particularly when he spoke about his early experiences of racism as a child in Liverpool and the way society was structured. Even the minor mention of Golliwogs at the start impacted me because of the way people try and justify them when they are obviously racist. This was impactful and I would recommend it.