UNCLE TOM'S CABIN

UNCLE TOM'S CABIN by Harriet Beecher Stowe

Annie (10th grade) and I just finished Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe. This was the first time I had read this classic , and I was very moved. Set up in a similar way to the popular TV series Downton Abbey, Stowe allows us to peek into the lives of her characters from the masters to the slaves, northerners to southerners with many different beliefs and view points on slavery. The character of Uncle Tom quickly implants itself in our hearts and the perils and mistreatment he endures while clinging to his faith will cut you to the quick. Stowe was the Dickens of the slavery time. Her desire was to reveal the truth, plight, and intelligence of the African race, and she does it beautifully.

In a meaty book like this, my daughter and I read a few chapters separately and then meet up to discuss what we've read. That way I can make sure she's comprehending the depth of the book, and we can discuss the atrocities that are brought to light.

HEADS UP- There is a tiny bit of language. The abuse and murder of slaves and the use of good looking women slaves by their masters is discussed.