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The Emancipation of Robert Sadler: The Powerful True Story of a Twentieth-Century Plantation Slave
Powerful True Story of a Twentieth-Century Plantation Slave
Over fifty years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Robert Sadler was sold into slavery at the age of five--by his own father. This is the no-holds-barred tale of those dark days, his quest for freedom, and the determination to serve others born out of his experience. It is a story of good triumphing over evil, of God's grace, and of an extraordinary life of ministry. An updated edition of a classic title.
Over fifty years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Robert Sadler was sold into slavery at the age of five--by his own father. This is the no-holds-barred tale of those dark days, his quest for freedom, and the determination to serve others born out of his experience. It is a story of good triumphing over evil, of God's grace, and of an extraordinary life of ministry. An updated edition of a classic title.
299 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 1975
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724 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 28, 2018
One of the most saddest yet happiest books I have read. To think this man endured such depravity at at such a young age yet come out of that and do great things in the name of the Lord is a blessing as well of the providence of God. What a blessed book. Bless Amazon's Kindle for having it for free. I read it in a few hours.
January 14, 2013
Upon completion of this book, many thoughts began to swirl around in my mind. I made sure to take the time to thank Jehovah for all the blessing He has bestowed upon me. In my prayers, I thanked Him for placing me in this era, free from these atrocities.
The harsh reality of slavery has escaped many in this country, and remains a taboo topic. We tend to brush this subject and its realities under the rug for many reasons, depending on the audience. Most believe slavery ended when the Emancipation Proclamation was written, but how untrue is that? Robert Sadler was a slave less than a century ago. How crazy is that? Under some circumstances, African-Americans remained slaves into the 50s.
I recommend this book to anyone who would like to read a touching story of faith, struggle, and resilience. The interesting thing about biographies is the harsh reality that the end may be sad, but under these circumstances not without some joy.
One final note from the book:
During Robert and a friend's travels, they came across a white woman who fed them and gave them a place to rest. The sad part is, when her husband got home her generosity switched and she became enraged when the kids noticed them still sitting on the
Excerpt:
Later that night as Buck and I lay on our backs looking up at the stars, I asked him, "why for that woman be so kindly and then change and act so poorly to us?"
Buck studied on it. " The way I sees it, Robert," he said, "is that she be big on talkin side short on the bein side."
Good Read Approved. :-)
The harsh reality of slavery has escaped many in this country, and remains a taboo topic. We tend to brush this subject and its realities under the rug for many reasons, depending on the audience. Most believe slavery ended when the Emancipation Proclamation was written, but how untrue is that? Robert Sadler was a slave less than a century ago. How crazy is that? Under some circumstances, African-Americans remained slaves into the 50s.
I recommend this book to anyone who would like to read a touching story of faith, struggle, and resilience. The interesting thing about biographies is the harsh reality that the end may be sad, but under these circumstances not without some joy.
One final note from the book:
During Robert and a friend's travels, they came across a white woman who fed them and gave them a place to rest. The sad part is, when her husband got home her generosity switched and she became enraged when the kids noticed them still sitting on the
Excerpt:
Later that night as Buck and I lay on our backs looking up at the stars, I asked him, "why for that woman be so kindly and then change and act so poorly to us?"
Buck studied on it. " The way I sees it, Robert," he said, "is that she be big on talkin side short on the bein side."
Good Read Approved. :-)
March 1, 2016
I had no idea that slavery continued in areas in the American south of different forms during the Twentieth-Century. I almost couldn't believe it and I had to google the subject; there is not a lot of information but it is definitely true. I was wondering if it was going to be dry and factual and come to find out it is written with feeling, depth and insight. This amazing man went onto being a minister of the Lord helping people of all races. His story is one that you don't want to miss.
November 30, 2012
First, although I think this book should have been put in the category of christian literature instead of general nonfiction, it was still very worth the read. Being that as a child my mother drug me to many many pentecostal meetings the christian content didn't throw me as it may others who have never been exposed to a charismatic christian. That being said, the life that Robert Sadler lived will cause you to weep openly and realize why the souths racial problems run so deep even to this day.
In the 1860's the Emancipation Proclamation was put into law. In 1917, the year Robert Sadler was sold by his father to the Beal plantation at five years old as a slave, a massive portion of the African American population in the south still didn't know that they were free men and women and the white plantation owners were just fine with perpetuating that lack of knowledge. The fact that slavery was still going on openly in the country in the 20th century should be a real eye opener for every American. This book, aside from all the religious over tones, would be greatly helpful if read by the population at large to see why racial inequality is still an issue that should be pressed until it becomes non issue in every nook and cranny of this great country.
The writing is decent and brings to life the smells, colors, horrors and triumphs of Mr. Sadler's life, as well as the people who moved in and out of his life through the years. I cried through the first half of this book because being a mom of 4 and one being a 5 year old son, it broke my heart to think that life could be so cruel to an innocent little child with no say or power to escape the inhumanity being forced upon him. Then I cried through the second half of the book in amazement that after all that he went through he was able to find happiness and forgiveness for his tormentors. And considering that I'm the type that would rather punch you than let you see me cry, this is saying something about the emotional journey this book takes you on.
I highly recommend this book.
In the 1860's the Emancipation Proclamation was put into law. In 1917, the year Robert Sadler was sold by his father to the Beal plantation at five years old as a slave, a massive portion of the African American population in the south still didn't know that they were free men and women and the white plantation owners were just fine with perpetuating that lack of knowledge. The fact that slavery was still going on openly in the country in the 20th century should be a real eye opener for every American. This book, aside from all the religious over tones, would be greatly helpful if read by the population at large to see why racial inequality is still an issue that should be pressed until it becomes non issue in every nook and cranny of this great country.
The writing is decent and brings to life the smells, colors, horrors and triumphs of Mr. Sadler's life, as well as the people who moved in and out of his life through the years. I cried through the first half of this book because being a mom of 4 and one being a 5 year old son, it broke my heart to think that life could be so cruel to an innocent little child with no say or power to escape the inhumanity being forced upon him. Then I cried through the second half of the book in amazement that after all that he went through he was able to find happiness and forgiveness for his tormentors. And considering that I'm the type that would rather punch you than let you see me cry, this is saying something about the emotional journey this book takes you on.
I highly recommend this book.
December 13, 2017
This was something that I needed right now. Not that it was by any means an easy read because Robert Sadler has a heartbreaking story, but I think it's an important one that a lot of people should hear. Reading about the transition from slave to free was enlightening, and I like the anecdotal way of how he tells his story. It's a beautiful story of redemption from all walks of life, and I'm so glad that I read it.
November 10, 2010
One of the more powerful and life changing books I have ever read. A moving memoir which will inspire anyone to live a fuller life.
January 5, 2013
This was a very hard book to read because of the abuse these black people endured at the hands of white farmers in the early twentieth century. Often I just cried. Having family in Anderson, South Carolina and remembering that the movie Radio took place also in Anderson, that part of the world is a bit off the beaten track, and I'm not surprised that these things happened there. It was a relief when Robert finally escaped and the story began to turn around. His struggles to live consistently was a reminder that we take one step at a time. It was gratifying that many of the whites who treated robert's family so badly did receive their just reward/ punishment and a reminder of God's grace when we seek Him. People often criticize Christians saying they are too narrow or judgmental, but this man's life exemplified the power of forgiveness and a life changed by God.
July 22, 2013
enjoyed this book a lot.....very interesting first hand account of the life of a black man from his youth in the early 1900's in the South working on a plantation as a "slave" ( the reality that a certain form of "slavery" continued to exist in the South even 40 to 50 yrs post-Civil War) until his later life when he becomes a traveling preacher and explores his deep spiritual connection to Christianity. Robert Sadler tells his story to Marie Chapian as she expertly creates a vivid picture of this one man's difficult life and how he perseveres to continue to overcome whatever obstacles are thrown his way. Great portrayal of the life of African-Americans in the South during that period of time.
August 31, 2023
Originally published in 1975. Robert Sadler was born in 1911 in Anderson, South Carolina.
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I picked up a 1st edition hardcover (an orangish red book) on the clearance rack at Coscos while living in Bremerton, Washington, for just a couple of bucks back in 1997 or so. Perhaps one of the best books I've ever read. This is very well written. I cried throughout. I finally lent it out to “King James”, in 2010, a tree trimmer guy, and he never returned it. He ended up being creepy as shit. About two weeks after he was done working for us, he called me on a rainy day, while my husband was at work, and asked what I was doing. He was still laying in bed “listening to the rain”. Creep!
Now, I see that book is worth upwards of $75.00 or more. I recommend this book to everyone.
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I picked up a 1st edition hardcover (an orangish red book) on the clearance rack at Coscos while living in Bremerton, Washington, for just a couple of bucks back in 1997 or so. Perhaps one of the best books I've ever read. This is very well written. I cried throughout. I finally lent it out to “King James”, in 2010, a tree trimmer guy, and he never returned it. He ended up being creepy as shit. About two weeks after he was done working for us, he called me on a rainy day, while my husband was at work, and asked what I was doing. He was still laying in bed “listening to the rain”. Creep!
Now, I see that book is worth upwards of $75.00 or more. I recommend this book to everyone.
February 14, 2012
The Emancipation of Robert Sadler is not going on the list of my favorite books. The story of a slave post emancipation is distressing and needs to be told. The part of the book that was auto-biographical I really appreciated. It was the section on ministry that really bugged me. At one point, Sadler claims that God told him to marry Jackie, a woman who was not a believer. In his story it worked out and she came to Christ, but I have a problem with a minister claiming that God spoke to him something that is directly contrary to Scripture. If it stayed biographical and less "how you should live" I would have liked it better.
July 9, 2018
What a compelling true about a man who was sold into slavery by his own father. The most shocking part of this story is that Robert became a slave more than 50 years after the emancipation proclamation. The best part of this story is that he was able to live a full and happy adult life. I can't believe I had this gem of a story sitting on shelf for more than 2 years. I'm glad I finally got around to reading it. I highly recommend others read to it.
July 9, 2020
Heartbreaking, eye opening, sobering, and inspiring. What an amazing story of the grace of God.
June 18, 2012
What an inspirational book! Despite all the abuse and oppression Robert, his family and his people suffered, he was able to show love and forgiveness through his faith and love for Jesus. The fact that his faith was nurtured by those who were also oppressed and abused was such an inspiration to me and reminded me that no matter who we are, no matter what situations we are experiencing or how insignificant we may feel, God knows and loves us all, even those who are considered "the least" in this world. Robert's heart that sought to listen for the voice of Jesus and then follow his leading made me realize how much I have to learn and how much I am missing when I do not stop to listen.
The abuses by the white people to the black people ripped at my heart! It is out of my realm of understanding how a human being can treat another human being so savagely just because of the color of their skin, as is the fact that this happened just two generations ago within this country. We have come far, but in many ways, we have so far yet to go.
This book touched my heart and made me want to go out and apologize for the actions of those who have abused and oppressed. Thank you God for using this book to open my eyes, ears and heart to so many things!
The abuses by the white people to the black people ripped at my heart! It is out of my realm of understanding how a human being can treat another human being so savagely just because of the color of their skin, as is the fact that this happened just two generations ago within this country. We have come far, but in many ways, we have so far yet to go.
This book touched my heart and made me want to go out and apologize for the actions of those who have abused and oppressed. Thank you God for using this book to open my eyes, ears and heart to so many things!
October 17, 2015
As I read this book it stirred plenty of emotion in me. Not necessarily because of the way it was written, but the story that was told. Many reviewers have captured the basis of the story and some have described the whole book. I on the other hand understands that there are flaws in editing in every book. That sometimes a sentence doesn't flow as naturally as thought out. This book hit all those points.
This book however touches on personal acceptance and change. The author who was also the main character in the book wanted more for himself than what society wanted for him. He didn't let the death of his mother and sell of him and his sisters into slavery determine his outcome. His inner spirit as a human stirred with the will to live. When faced with returning to his past he had to accept that he was free and would have to break the chains of mental servitude and stand on his own to make the most out of life for himself. This is a lesson that should be learned by many.
I recommend this book to all reading levels.
This book however touches on personal acceptance and change. The author who was also the main character in the book wanted more for himself than what society wanted for him. He didn't let the death of his mother and sell of him and his sisters into slavery determine his outcome. His inner spirit as a human stirred with the will to live. When faced with returning to his past he had to accept that he was free and would have to break the chains of mental servitude and stand on his own to make the most out of life for himself. This is a lesson that should be learned by many.
I recommend this book to all reading levels.
February 27, 2012
Compelling, heartbreaking, inspiring. Unfathomably sold into slavery at the tender age of five by his abusive father, Robert Sadler endures nearly 10 years in unbearable circumstances. Escaping to freedom at 14, he is ill-equipped to deal with life and roams from place to place, and eventually turns to a life of substance abuse and crime.
Then, Robert meets Jesus, who heals his heart and utterly transforms this uneducated young man into a mighty man of God. Robert travels the nation ministering powerfully, and miracle after miracle unfolds as he is led by the voice of the Lord.
The amazing thing to me is that Robert completely forgave those who harmed him; he didn't grow resentful and bitter. A powerful book that clearly portrays God's ability to heal, transform, and mightily use anyone--for His glory.
Then, Robert meets Jesus, who heals his heart and utterly transforms this uneducated young man into a mighty man of God. Robert travels the nation ministering powerfully, and miracle after miracle unfolds as he is led by the voice of the Lord.
The amazing thing to me is that Robert completely forgave those who harmed him; he didn't grow resentful and bitter. A powerful book that clearly portrays God's ability to heal, transform, and mightily use anyone--for His glory.
November 15, 2012
This book was both tragic and amazing.
The first half of the book was so hard to read—pulling back the curtain and giving a glimpse into what slavery was like from an inside perspective. Absolutely horrific. Robert Sadler was sold into slavery when he was just five years old—twice!—and by his own father!—and in 1916!
And as if the first half of the book wasn't enough in its own way, the second half was equally as good, having to do with his freedom from slavery and entering the ministry. Robert's story is that of tragedy and struggle, followed by overcoming anger and learning to be free, and then hearing how God powerfully used him to touch millions of people.
Everyone should read this book—not just for the insights into the horrific things white men did to slaves, but also to see how God can change any person's heart, learning to live a life of love and forgiveness.
The first half of the book was so hard to read—pulling back the curtain and giving a glimpse into what slavery was like from an inside perspective. Absolutely horrific. Robert Sadler was sold into slavery when he was just five years old—twice!—and by his own father!—and in 1916!
And as if the first half of the book wasn't enough in its own way, the second half was equally as good, having to do with his freedom from slavery and entering the ministry. Robert's story is that of tragedy and struggle, followed by overcoming anger and learning to be free, and then hearing how God powerfully used him to touch millions of people.
Everyone should read this book—not just for the insights into the horrific things white men did to slaves, but also to see how God can change any person's heart, learning to live a life of love and forgiveness.
February 13, 2015
I could not put the book down! One could easily dismiss this as fiction; after all, who in America sells their child into slavery> Who after being sold into slavery can find forgiveness for their parent? Robert Sadler! In the words of his friend Jack, "I believe in standing up, yes I do, I believe in being a man. I believe I has a right to be a man. But if I fill my body and my mind with hate, then I ain't a man no more... I done see'd hate, Robert, and I knows what killing is. Ain't nobody who can tell me what I don't already know about hate. The young folks say it's just begun, but I say I's see'd enough. Hate don't make nothin better nohow. It makes a man sick and despiseful." His story is one of strength, determination, and above all else the ability of the Lord's grace to enable even the weakest of us to overcome obstacles and show love where none existed.
June 1, 2018
I thoroughly enjoy a good slave narrative. Robert was sold into slavery long after slavery was abolished but yet and still his story sounded like it was from many years earlier when slavery was still legal. This novel very much read like a memoir and was broken into three parts. The only part of the novel that failed to keep my attention was the last section where he starts to minister and eventually opens his mission that serves as a place for those down on their luck to gather and get back on their feet. I appreciate People like Robert Sadler and the awesome deeds that he did for other but the entertainment appeal was lost in this section. It was still a really good novel.
September 15, 2014
I very much enjoyed this book. Once I started the first chapter, it was virtually impossible for me to put down. The story of Robert Sadler's time enslaved is just baffling to me, considering that he was sold(!) AFTER the end of Slavery. In my opinion, the "Ministry" section of the book got a bit preachy, but I guess that's to be expected from someone who lives the majority of their adult life as a preacher and devout follower of God. Still, I'd definitely recommend to anyone looking for an engaging novel. WELL WORTH THE READ!
January 7, 2016
It was pretty interesting! I read it because a friend of mine is somehow related to him and lent me the book (actually, she gave it to me about 10 years ago and I finally got around to reading it). Robert Sadler's father sold him into slavery when he was just 5 years old in the early 1900s. Parts of his story were incredibly depressing, while other parts were uplifting. Overall, it was a pretty interesting story! I wish I could have met Robert Sadler. He seems like a very compelling man. I enjoyed reading his memoir!
June 17, 2013
I couldn't put it down. As a transplant to South Carolina with some vague familiarity with the places mentioned and acutely aware of the Dixie sensibilities that still exist towards some African Americans I found the book to be a candid explication of the peculiar struggle that the enslaved feels as they try to sort out allegiances in a context of suspicion from all quarters at the very moment of liberation.
March 16, 2014
Wow! This book touched me in a way that no other book besides the Bible.
It is hard for to imagine being sold into by my own father. Aren't Daddy's supposed to love and protect their children?
What a message of love, grace and forgiveness is found in this book.
I cried along with Robert when he lost his mom and sister.
Praise God Robert was able to rise above it. The Lord used him to touch others.
Never give up on anyone. Reach out. Care.
It is hard for to imagine being sold into by my own father. Aren't Daddy's supposed to love and protect their children?
What a message of love, grace and forgiveness is found in this book.
I cried along with Robert when he lost his mom and sister.
Praise God Robert was able to rise above it. The Lord used him to touch others.
Never give up on anyone. Reach out. Care.
January 25, 2016
4* I enjoyed this biography of Robert Sadler, who was sold by his father into slavery in 1917. The first part of the book is tragically sad, with Robert being sold and mistreated. The middle part describes his escape and how illiterate, lost, and confused he was as a free man. In the last part of the book Robert describes his ministry and the many amazing miracles the Lord worked through him.
January 22, 2016
Good book,
This book makes you think. That as we pray for things we want, we should humble ourselves and be thankful for what we have. We should help our fellow human, just out of the kindness of our heart. When things seem to go wrong remember God knows what He's doing and we should just have faith.
This book makes you think. That as we pray for things we want, we should humble ourselves and be thankful for what we have. We should help our fellow human, just out of the kindness of our heart. When things seem to go wrong remember God knows what He's doing and we should just have faith.
February 18, 2016
This book was excellent. In the beginning you feel angry and sadness because of the situation this poor little boy was put into. As you read further, you can't help but see the wonders of God. This man could have grown up to be bitter and hateful, but God... It is a very inspiring tale and I am very glad that I read it.
July 13, 2018
The book was enlightening. I had no idea there were plantation slaves in the South in the 20th century.
Robert Sadler’s faith in God carried him through many tribulations. He was preserved in order to be a servant of God who had a sincere compassion for people and their souls.
Mr. Sadler’s humility allowed him to hear from Holy Spirit and respond without taking credit for anything.
Robert Sadler’s faith in God carried him through many tribulations. He was preserved in order to be a servant of God who had a sincere compassion for people and their souls.
Mr. Sadler’s humility allowed him to hear from Holy Spirit and respond without taking credit for anything.
January 21, 2013
A very powerful story of a young boy sold into slavery at age 5 in 1917 and his journey thru life. Heartbreaking tales of the loss of people around him, yet he always maintained a positive attitude. Good book.
April 30, 2014
I loved the first half of this book. A young black child who's views of love and life are distorted overcomes a life of hate, slavery, and loss and learns love and faith. The second half felt rushed, and full of gaps, and a little bit preachy. But I've never read a better biography.
February 20, 2017
Interesting read
It was fascinating reading the story of this man's experience in slavery, poverty, and new life in Jesus. It gave me new insights into understanding poverty and the African-American experience.
It was fascinating reading the story of this man's experience in slavery, poverty, and new life in Jesus. It gave me new insights into understanding poverty and the African-American experience.
July 26, 2018
The cruelty perpetrated against Robert and others was difficult to read about, but I felt I could not skip it. They deserved to be heard. I was glad I read it all. His story would not have been as valuable without it. He has a message for all of us.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews