Invisible shadows: A Black woman's life in Nova Scotia

by Verna Thomas

Invisible Shadows is Verna Thomas' account of coming to consciousness about race in the wake of changes in education, civil rights, and black self-awareness that swept across the continent in the second half of the twentieth century and against the wider backdrop of slavery. Part autobiography, part history, part race theory, the work's hybrid form reflects the range of influences brought to bear on it-intersecting histories, cultures, and communities, framed by the events of one woman's life. The power of Invisible Shadows lies in the sincerity -and the good humour with which Thomas approaches the difficult task of truth-telling.

182 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2002

Reviews

[Karin · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are some wonderful insights here into life in different black communities in Nova Scotia. Some of the stories are absolutely riveting and wonderfully written. What I found distracting though was the random asides - delving into historical context that sometimes provided fascinating and relevant information, but sometimes did not. These were often abrupt and disrupted the flow of the narrative. I actually think that part of her conclusion would have made a great introduction - of the journey of self-discovery that required a journey into the past. This would have served as a great bridge between reminiscences and the mini history lessons.