31 pages • 1 hour read
Harriet E. WilsonOur Nig: Sketches from the Life of a Free Black
Harriet E. WilsonFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1859A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
131
Novel • Fiction
New England • 1850s
1859
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Our Nig by Harriet E. Wilson is an autobiographical novel that recounts the life of Frado, a mixed-race girl left in the care of the wealthy, white Bellmont family, where she suffers cruel abuse but also finds allies. After enduring hardships and securing her spiritual education, Frado gains independence, eventually starting her own business and building a supportive community of friends. The book includes depictions of racial abuse and physical cruelty.
Dark
Mysterious
Challenging
Emotional
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
3,329 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Harriet E. Wilson's Our Nig has been praised for its groundbreaking portrayal of race and class dynamics in 19th-century America, offering valuable historical insights. Critics laud its authenticity and emotional depth, though some note its occasionally fragmented narrative. Despite its structural imperfections, the novel remains a significant and enlightening read.
Who Should Read Our Nig?
Readers who appreciate Our Nig by Harriet E. Wilson are likely interested in African American literature, historical narratives of slavery and race, and early feminist perspectives. They might also enjoy books like Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs and The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.
3,329 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
131
Novel • Fiction
New England • 1850s
1859
Adult
14-18 years
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