First published 2007
Sam Tademy sees opportunity in the newly freed town of Colfax, Louisiana. Reconstruction has given black residents the right to vote and own property. Sam plans to open a school for local children. His friend Israel Smith wants to start a business and gain economic independence. Their hopes shatter when white marauders attack Colfax in one of the South's bloodiest acts of racial violence. Sam and Israel must rebuild from nothing. Sam discovers hidden strength that makes him a leader, though it puts his life at risk. Israel achieves unexpected success but faces devastating betrayal. Both men struggle to pass on pride and resilience to their sons and grandsons. The story follows three generations as they navigate the gap between Reconstruction's broken promises and their determination to create better lives for their families.
Genres: american-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, 19th-century, african-american-historical-fiction
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, resilience
Setting: Colfax, Louisiana
Period: Reconstruction
Kindle Edition · Grand Central Publishing
Content warnings: racism, violence