BOOK BRIEF

Slaves in the Family

Edward Ball
Guide cover placeholder

Slaves in the Family

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1998

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Edward Ball

Slaves in the Family

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

505

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

American South • 18th-19th centuries

Theme
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Slaves in the Family, Edward Ball delves into his family's history, tracing the legacy of their Southern plantation ancestors and their relationships with the enslaved individuals who worked their land. Through extensive research and personal journeys, Ball uncovers the entwined lives and stories that span generations.

Reviews & Readership

4.4

3,208 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Edward Ball's Slaves in the Family is praised for its thorough research and candid exploration of a poignant, complex family history rooted in American slavery. Ball's narrative intertwines personal and historical elements effectively. Some critics find it overly detailed and occasionally monotonous, but overall, it is an enlightening read on legacy and reconciliation.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Slaves in the Family?

A reader who enjoys Slaves in the Family by Edward Ball is likely interested in American history, particularly the complexities of slavery and its lasting impact. Comparable to readers of Alex Haley's Roots and Annette Gordon-Reed's The Hemingses of Monticello, they appreciate narrative nonfiction that delves into personal and historical examination.

4.4

3,208 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

505

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

American South • 18th-19th centuries

Theme
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!