ISP blog post #1

For my ISP I'm reading The Book of Negros by Lawrence Hill. Before reading this book I predicted that it would have to do with slavery and people being oppressed and controlled. I didn't expect the book to take place in two different countries, I assumed that the setting would be in the southern USA. When reading through the part where Aminata is being captured, there is a glimpse of hope that she might escape. Of course this is not what happens but who really wanted her to kidnapped and taken to work as a slave? For most of the reading so far I ave been wondering what will life be like for Aminata? Will she escape slavery? Will she ever return to Africa? Will she be able to be with her husband? Will her child be taken away? Will karma come for the plantation owners? Is she going to live out her days on the plantation? All these questions run through my mind every time I pick up this book.
One connection I have made in the book is that Aminata is always saying that she crossed 'the big river' and 'is on an island'. Eventually, when she learns english, she learns that she actually crossed an ocean, and is not exactly on an island but a big piece of land.
I got really bad vibes from Appleby. He seemed like a real creep, which he proved when he raped Aminata. He seems to have a lot of control issues or self esteem issues because he doesn't like Aminata being with another man. This is also proved by the fact that he even kept slaves as his own; he wanted something or someone to control in his life.
My impression of the author is that they're a very kind hearted person, but they have seen a lot of bad things. For example, Aminata has not really changed her personality or what she wants in life dispiate being through a lot of horrible things happening to her. This gives me the impression that the author is probably just as strong a person and doesn't let bad things ruin their day.
This novel is based in a time when racism was alright with most people, and a lot of people kept slaves. This speaks to us today because it teaches us about our history and what mistakes should not be repeated. It also shows why people are the way they are today; we don't agree with racism or keep slaves and are very careful with the language we use.
As a reader I am really good at choosing which times are good for me to read and which are not. If I am overly tired I know I can still read but I won't retain any of the information so I usually read in parts of the day when I'm more awake. The boring parts of books for me are usually when the action slows down or there are no dramatic events. To get through these parts of novels I usually have to lie to myself and say that this book is really good and shouldn't stop. Sometimes I tell myself that I can't afford to stop because I nee to get the book done.
Over all I'm really enjoying this book so far. I really hope Aminata, her son, her husband, and the other salves will be freed by the end.