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Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin #1
Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin
This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B00KZW2YA2
The classic tale reborn as an inspiring runaway slave thriller!
Young slave George Harris is a self-taught inventor with an owner who despises him. Slavery has forced him apart from his wife, Eliza, and their three-year-old son Harry, who belong to another owner. George dreams of the day he can escape north and work for his family's freedom, but no amount of careful planning could prepare him for what came next.
When Eliza learns that her owner plans to sell Harry to pay off a debt, she runs north at once. George must escape too, if he has any hope of finding his family before the slave hunters do. They'll all travel to Canada, a journey that's treacherous, long, and often deadly. Will George and Eliza find their freedom or die trying?
Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin is the first book in a series that nimbly reimagines Harriet Beecher Stowe's original novel and it includes nerve-wracking suspense, memorable characters, heartbreaking cruelty, and a compelling story told through powerful and refreshing writing.
Author Carl Waters' talent is undeniable as he turns the sanitized original tale into an awe-inspiring journey of courage, grit, and faith.
The classic tale reborn as an inspiring runaway slave thriller!
Young slave George Harris is a self-taught inventor with an owner who despises him. Slavery has forced him apart from his wife, Eliza, and their three-year-old son Harry, who belong to another owner. George dreams of the day he can escape north and work for his family's freedom, but no amount of careful planning could prepare him for what came next.
When Eliza learns that her owner plans to sell Harry to pay off a debt, she runs north at once. George must escape too, if he has any hope of finding his family before the slave hunters do. They'll all travel to Canada, a journey that's treacherous, long, and often deadly. Will George and Eliza find their freedom or die trying?
Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin is the first book in a series that nimbly reimagines Harriet Beecher Stowe's original novel and it includes nerve-wracking suspense, memorable characters, heartbreaking cruelty, and a compelling story told through powerful and refreshing writing.
Author Carl Waters' talent is undeniable as he turns the sanitized original tale into an awe-inspiring journey of courage, grit, and faith.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2014
182 people are currently reading
1731 people want to read
About the author
Carl Waters
22 books79 followersGet Carl Water's novella, Little Red Riding Hood: Werewolf Slayer for free at: www.BrightSons.com/RG1
Carl Waters, born and raised in Miami, Florida, grew up reading comic books and dreamed of being a new kind of superhero. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he now lives with his daughter.
Waters never forgot his childhood dreams, which over the years transformed into a desire to create new heroes, particularly African-American male heroes, through writing. His debut offering is Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin, the first book in a series that reimagines Harriet Beecher Stowe’s classic novel, featuring strong characters who break out of the old stereotypes.
Carl Waters, born and raised in Miami, Florida, grew up reading comic books and dreamed of being a new kind of superhero. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami and moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he now lives with his daughter.
Waters never forgot his childhood dreams, which over the years transformed into a desire to create new heroes, particularly African-American male heroes, through writing. His debut offering is Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin, the first book in a series that reimagines Harriet Beecher Stowe’s classic novel, featuring strong characters who break out of the old stereotypes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 25, 2014
Reimagining Uncle Tom
I was asked by the author's assistant to review an Advanced Reader Copy of Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin, to be released June 15. The author describes this "reimagining" as a jumping off point from the Harriet Beecher Stowe novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin and seeks to change the image of Uncle Tom from "sellout" to a man who assisted runaways.
I'll first get my nitpicking out of the way. The title of this book is deceiving; the actual burning takes place as an afterthought from my perspective. And then there is the overuse of "murmured." The word, by definition means mumble, and is used thirty times (Kindle search) in sentences where "said" would have been appropriate.
That out of the way, I liked the story of George Harris (a character drawn from the Stowe novel), his wife Eliza, their son Harry and their journey seeking freedom. I was at first puzzled at George's philosophizing and anger at being treated as less than a man in a way that seemed more logical if he had been born a free man, as Solomon Northup was in Twelve Years a Slave. And I wondered if Northup's memoir also influenced this novel. But I then decided this was the author's intention that George not be a passive slave but rather one who challenged whatever situation he might find himself in.
There were enough twists and turns in their journey, with many cliff-hangers to keep me turning pages. There was the conflict of being chased by slave catchers even in "Free States" where the Fugitive Slave Act made it legal for a slave-owner to recapture his escaped slaves and return them to the South. And there was also some conflict between George who did not believe in God, and Eliza who recited Scripture to help her through the worst of times. Eliza gradually softened George's heart and his anger.
I would hope that the author's annotations of George Harris' Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe will serve as a prequel and give greater incite into the changes of the character, George, in Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin.
I was asked by the author's assistant to review an Advanced Reader Copy of Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin, to be released June 15. The author describes this "reimagining" as a jumping off point from the Harriet Beecher Stowe novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin and seeks to change the image of Uncle Tom from "sellout" to a man who assisted runaways.
I'll first get my nitpicking out of the way. The title of this book is deceiving; the actual burning takes place as an afterthought from my perspective. And then there is the overuse of "murmured." The word, by definition means mumble, and is used thirty times (Kindle search) in sentences where "said" would have been appropriate.
That out of the way, I liked the story of George Harris (a character drawn from the Stowe novel), his wife Eliza, their son Harry and their journey seeking freedom. I was at first puzzled at George's philosophizing and anger at being treated as less than a man in a way that seemed more logical if he had been born a free man, as Solomon Northup was in Twelve Years a Slave. And I wondered if Northup's memoir also influenced this novel. But I then decided this was the author's intention that George not be a passive slave but rather one who challenged whatever situation he might find himself in.
There were enough twists and turns in their journey, with many cliff-hangers to keep me turning pages. There was the conflict of being chased by slave catchers even in "Free States" where the Fugitive Slave Act made it legal for a slave-owner to recapture his escaped slaves and return them to the South. And there was also some conflict between George who did not believe in God, and Eliza who recited Scripture to help her through the worst of times. Eliza gradually softened George's heart and his anger.
I would hope that the author's annotations of George Harris' Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe will serve as a prequel and give greater incite into the changes of the character, George, in Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin.
August 29, 2014
As a 10th grader, I had to read "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and I was not a fan because I felt the black characters were very stereotypical.
Carl Waters has taken the stereotypical characters and turned them on their heads in his novel "Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin." The book is well written, and aside from a couple of sentences that didn't flow smoothly, I think it is an outstanding first effort.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction, books that offer a re-telling of a popular story, or readers of African American fiction will enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Carl Waters has taken the stereotypical characters and turned them on their heads in his novel "Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin." The book is well written, and aside from a couple of sentences that didn't flow smoothly, I think it is an outstanding first effort.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction, books that offer a re-telling of a popular story, or readers of African American fiction will enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more from this author.
June 23, 2014
3.5 stars
It's important to realize that this isn't a reworking of Harriet Beecher Stowe's classic novel, but more like an exploratory offshoot, changing the focus to George Harris, his wife Eliza and son Harry.
It lacks the depth of Beecher Stowe's prose but is a bit more readable, especially for today's audience, which also makes it more accessible to young adults. George also comes across as a more educated man, with more pride and acting less downtrodden. This may be because, unlike Tom and Eliza who were treated as part of the family, George was owned by a cruel man who viewed him as equivalent to a draft mule.
When George's owner tries to force him into leaving his beloved wife and sleeping with another slave to breed more slave children, George rebels and runs away. Eliza follows, for her own reasons, and we follow their desperate escape attempts as each tries to make it safely to Canada. Beecher Stowe didn't give too much detail about these journeys, or the Underground Railroad, so Waters' story gives some insight into the problems and wonderful people who were involved.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's important to realize that this isn't a reworking of Harriet Beecher Stowe's classic novel, but more like an exploratory offshoot, changing the focus to George Harris, his wife Eliza and son Harry.
It lacks the depth of Beecher Stowe's prose but is a bit more readable, especially for today's audience, which also makes it more accessible to young adults. George also comes across as a more educated man, with more pride and acting less downtrodden. This may be because, unlike Tom and Eliza who were treated as part of the family, George was owned by a cruel man who viewed him as equivalent to a draft mule.
When George's owner tries to force him into leaving his beloved wife and sleeping with another slave to breed more slave children, George rebels and runs away. Eliza follows, for her own reasons, and we follow their desperate escape attempts as each tries to make it safely to Canada. Beecher Stowe didn't give too much detail about these journeys, or the Underground Railroad, so Waters' story gives some insight into the problems and wonderful people who were involved.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2014
As stories go, this one was not half bad. but considering the fact that Uncle Tom's Cabin was one of my favorite stories from an early age on, I could not quite fall in love with the story.
First, it already told me what I knew so there were no surprises.
Second, I thought there was going to be a little more to the story, considering it was going to be from George's point of view. There wasn't a lot of that.
I actually thought he was a lot more smart and cunning in the original story.
But if you want the original novel split up in easier to process chunks, you could with this approach.
There is one little thing I want to say though. Mr. Waters said in his author's note that he thought Tom weak.
Tom was NOT weak. It takes a very strong and committed person to sacrifice himself for the safety of others. To endure what he endured and never lose his humanity and christianity.
First, it already told me what I knew so there were no surprises.
Second, I thought there was going to be a little more to the story, considering it was going to be from George's point of view. There wasn't a lot of that.
I actually thought he was a lot more smart and cunning in the original story.
But if you want the original novel split up in easier to process chunks, you could with this approach.
There is one little thing I want to say though. Mr. Waters said in his author's note that he thought Tom weak.
Tom was NOT weak. It takes a very strong and committed person to sacrifice himself for the safety of others. To endure what he endured and never lose his humanity and christianity.
July 6, 2014
‘You’ll watch, boy, and you’ll learn your lesson.’
In ‘Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin’, George Harris is a young slave who has been loaned out by his owner Mr Harris to work for another man, Mr Wilson. George’s wife, Eliza and their young son Harry are owned by the Shelbys, and George hopes that one day he can escape to Canada and earn enough money to buy his family’s freedom.
‘So that they might be a family again one day, in a place where they were free to live without worrying about whether someone might send them away for no reason.’
But when Mr Harris decides that George can no longer work for Mr Wilson, George has to rethink his planning. And when the Shelbys, who’ve fallen into financial troubles, offer up Harry and Uncle Tom to the slave trader Haley, Eliza takes Harry and flees north. Once George finds out, he runs after them, hoping to find them before the slave hunters do. Uncle Tom may seem to have accepted his fate, but Eliza and George have not.
The novel moves quickly, and it’s difficult not to get caught up in the tension as George and Eliza seek safety. There are a few places were the language – to my ear – is too modern for the period (I really can’t imagine Eliza saying to George: ‘.. I have faith that your smarts will get us safely to Canada.’) but mostly the story reads well. There are some heartbreaking scenes as well, including the treatment of George’s puppy Carlo, which serve to underline how effectively cruelty and power dehumanise.
In his introduction to this book, Carl Waters explains how Harriet Beecher Stowe’s ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ provided the starting point for what will be a four book series told from the point of view of the slaves. It’s an interesting and thoughtful introduction, and while I’d have to read all four books to see how well Mr Waters achieves his objective, ‘Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ is a great start. I recommend it.
‘What sort of country was this, that would award that sort of power to one man and not another?’
Note: I was offered and accepted a copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
In ‘Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin’, George Harris is a young slave who has been loaned out by his owner Mr Harris to work for another man, Mr Wilson. George’s wife, Eliza and their young son Harry are owned by the Shelbys, and George hopes that one day he can escape to Canada and earn enough money to buy his family’s freedom.
‘So that they might be a family again one day, in a place where they were free to live without worrying about whether someone might send them away for no reason.’
But when Mr Harris decides that George can no longer work for Mr Wilson, George has to rethink his planning. And when the Shelbys, who’ve fallen into financial troubles, offer up Harry and Uncle Tom to the slave trader Haley, Eliza takes Harry and flees north. Once George finds out, he runs after them, hoping to find them before the slave hunters do. Uncle Tom may seem to have accepted his fate, but Eliza and George have not.
The novel moves quickly, and it’s difficult not to get caught up in the tension as George and Eliza seek safety. There are a few places were the language – to my ear – is too modern for the period (I really can’t imagine Eliza saying to George: ‘.. I have faith that your smarts will get us safely to Canada.’) but mostly the story reads well. There are some heartbreaking scenes as well, including the treatment of George’s puppy Carlo, which serve to underline how effectively cruelty and power dehumanise.
In his introduction to this book, Carl Waters explains how Harriet Beecher Stowe’s ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ provided the starting point for what will be a four book series told from the point of view of the slaves. It’s an interesting and thoughtful introduction, and while I’d have to read all four books to see how well Mr Waters achieves his objective, ‘Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ is a great start. I recommend it.
‘What sort of country was this, that would award that sort of power to one man and not another?’
Note: I was offered and accepted a copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
June 25, 2014
As someone who loved the original Uncle Tom's Cabin I was very excited to see this book available to review on NetGalley. I admit that my expectations might have been set a little high for this book, but I found myself rather disapointed in comparison with Uncle Tom's Cabin.
As a standalone book, or as a more realistic retelling of Uncle Tom's Cabin, Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin is a really interesting read. This story focuses on George, his wife Eliza, and their son, Henry, as they attempt to flee slavery and escape to Canada. Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin focuses more on the escape and what life entailed for a runaway slave during this time period, which was an interesting perspective that was mostly missing in Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Comparing the story to the original Uncle Tom's Cabin which I must do as this story is a retelling, there were a few areas in which this book seemed to be lacking in. The prose in Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin was not as eloquent as that of the original. Granted, as another reviewer pointed out, the simpler prose does make the story more easily readable and will appeal to a modern and younger audience. The other area in which this book was lacking was in character development. I found that the characters were somewhat undeveloped throughout the story and that I had a hard time caring about or relating to any of the characters throughout the story.
As a standalone story about slavery and the underground railroad, this is an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend. As a retelling of the original Uncle Tom's Cabin this book falls a little short, I would recommend sticking with the original.
I received this book for review purposes via NetGalley.
As a standalone book, or as a more realistic retelling of Uncle Tom's Cabin, Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin is a really interesting read. This story focuses on George, his wife Eliza, and their son, Henry, as they attempt to flee slavery and escape to Canada. Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin focuses more on the escape and what life entailed for a runaway slave during this time period, which was an interesting perspective that was mostly missing in Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Comparing the story to the original Uncle Tom's Cabin which I must do as this story is a retelling, there were a few areas in which this book seemed to be lacking in. The prose in Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin was not as eloquent as that of the original. Granted, as another reviewer pointed out, the simpler prose does make the story more easily readable and will appeal to a modern and younger audience. The other area in which this book was lacking was in character development. I found that the characters were somewhat undeveloped throughout the story and that I had a hard time caring about or relating to any of the characters throughout the story.
As a standalone story about slavery and the underground railroad, this is an enjoyable read and one that I would recommend. As a retelling of the original Uncle Tom's Cabin this book falls a little short, I would recommend sticking with the original.
I received this book for review purposes via NetGalley.
Read
August 9, 2014This book reaches out and grabs you without letting going even after you have finished. Reading about other people's struggles, as big as slavery, which violate basic humanity makes most people's issues seem almost silly. This book has the ability to give someone a will not only to fight for what's right but to keep living everyday with only the faith in your heart that God has plans for you. Christianity plays an important role in this book both within the slaves and the masters. The absolute blind faith demonstrated from the helpless slaves is awe inspiring. I felt emotional during some passages, mostly out of pity and pure sympathy. You can't help feeling so terribly sad for the suffering referenced here when you know it is nothing but the truth. I caught myself wishing I could help and wondering what choices I would have made had I lived during this time period. My favorite part was when Eliza uses the strength only a desperate mother could possess to escape to freedom in order to save her son, who can't relate to that. Everybody has something they are willing to risk their life on and oh how admirable she is. This book remains a classic through and through even with the metamorphosis it experienced its still a book that will retain its meaning and worth for generations to come.
I am anticipating, somewhat patiently, the next installment, I can't wait to see what the author has to offer me on this journey through slavery.
I am anticipating, somewhat patiently, the next installment, I can't wait to see what the author has to offer me on this journey through slavery.
July 20, 2014
Sweet Freedom
George Harris is a young slave with a wife and son on another plantation. Although he is a good worker, his owner despises him and does everything in his power to break George down. George knows that he must escape and go to Canada or his master will continue to exploit him. His wife Eliza, on the other hand, is very fond of her master. He treats her well and she is able to enjoy a fairly decent life. Everything changes when Eliza learns that her owner plans to sell her son. She knows her husband’s dream of Canada is the only way she can keep her son from being sold off, so she escapes and begins the perilous journey to freedom. When George finds out, he too escapes and sets off to reunite with his family before the slave catchers capture them.
Carl Water’s story is a retelling of the classic Harriet Beecher Stowe novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” It is fast-paced with just enough suspense to keep the reader engaged. The characters are a bit ‘preachy’ at times but this does not hurt the plot. What keeps this novel from being a five-star read is the use of dialogue. Although George and Eliza are slaves, their choice of words is very educated. Yet at times, the writer switches back to uneducated diction when they speak. This lack of consistency in language proved to be challenging at times.
Reviewed by: Flashette
George Harris is a young slave with a wife and son on another plantation. Although he is a good worker, his owner despises him and does everything in his power to break George down. George knows that he must escape and go to Canada or his master will continue to exploit him. His wife Eliza, on the other hand, is very fond of her master. He treats her well and she is able to enjoy a fairly decent life. Everything changes when Eliza learns that her owner plans to sell her son. She knows her husband’s dream of Canada is the only way she can keep her son from being sold off, so she escapes and begins the perilous journey to freedom. When George finds out, he too escapes and sets off to reunite with his family before the slave catchers capture them.
Carl Water’s story is a retelling of the classic Harriet Beecher Stowe novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” It is fast-paced with just enough suspense to keep the reader engaged. The characters are a bit ‘preachy’ at times but this does not hurt the plot. What keeps this novel from being a five-star read is the use of dialogue. Although George and Eliza are slaves, their choice of words is very educated. Yet at times, the writer switches back to uneducated diction when they speak. This lack of consistency in language proved to be challenging at times.
Reviewed by: Flashette
June 28, 2014
I really enjoyed it; I do read a lot of YA fiction as I am a high school English/Journalism teacher. At any rate, I read that this is supposed to be a 4 part series. I would love to read the next copies of this series. Here are my comments:
Pros:
Quick, easy read
Subject matter appealing
Sweet companion piece to UTC - especially for those who are at a lower Lexile level
Some real and scary stuff - drowning of dog; whipping of George...
Cons:
Abrupt ending - although, knowing it’s a series I do understand; however, I think the title is somewhat misleading. I would’ve begun the next novel with the burning of the cabin and picked up there with UT’s story.
George - I am wondering where he gets his gumption from? I mean, back then, slaves wouldn’t have felt entitled to their freedom, would’ve they? I liked his backbone but am wondering about the authenticity of his character.
Will share with my students!
Pros:
Quick, easy read
Subject matter appealing
Sweet companion piece to UTC - especially for those who are at a lower Lexile level
Some real and scary stuff - drowning of dog; whipping of George...
Cons:
Abrupt ending - although, knowing it’s a series I do understand; however, I think the title is somewhat misleading. I would’ve begun the next novel with the burning of the cabin and picked up there with UT’s story.
George - I am wondering where he gets his gumption from? I mean, back then, slaves wouldn’t have felt entitled to their freedom, would’ve they? I liked his backbone but am wondering about the authenticity of his character.
Will share with my students!
August 22, 2014
For those who may see the title and think this book is going to be in direct relation to "Uncle Tom's Cabin", you are setting yourself up for disappointment. This story is rich with it's own unique flavor narrating the story of George and his often underestimated wife, Eliza. Tom is an additive that only enriches this novel that much more.
George's willful spirit and character forced me to root for his acquisition of freedom - both for himself and his family. Eliza reminded me of what a mother's unconditional love and dedication would do if faced with the unthinkable.
It read as if I were literally breathing the stenches they inhaled and heard the footsteps they cautioned for. I literally rallied and prayed for their journey to Canada and...well...I won't provide spoilers. You will definitely have to read it for yourself!
I cannot wait for the second installment!
George's willful spirit and character forced me to root for his acquisition of freedom - both for himself and his family. Eliza reminded me of what a mother's unconditional love and dedication would do if faced with the unthinkable.
It read as if I were literally breathing the stenches they inhaled and heard the footsteps they cautioned for. I literally rallied and prayed for their journey to Canada and...well...I won't provide spoilers. You will definitely have to read it for yourself!
I cannot wait for the second installment!
June 19, 2014
That Burning Desire for Freedom
After a series of events by his master and his wife’s master, protagonist George Harris, finds himself turning his dream of providing for a better life for himself and his family into a reality. Although George’s plan did not immediately include his enslaved wife and son fleeing the clutches of their master, their own harrowing tale of escape happens to coincide with his. Just as every great action-adventure movie has a chase scene, Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin has its own 19th century version; complete with a band of slave catchers in pursuit, heroic feats and narrow escapes. Waters writing style makes for an enjoyable read; easily slipping back in time to follow George as he navigates his way to freedom.
After a series of events by his master and his wife’s master, protagonist George Harris, finds himself turning his dream of providing for a better life for himself and his family into a reality. Although George’s plan did not immediately include his enslaved wife and son fleeing the clutches of their master, their own harrowing tale of escape happens to coincide with his. Just as every great action-adventure movie has a chase scene, Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin has its own 19th century version; complete with a band of slave catchers in pursuit, heroic feats and narrow escapes. Waters writing style makes for an enjoyable read; easily slipping back in time to follow George as he navigates his way to freedom.
June 12, 2014
Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin is a tale richly woven from the past. George Harris is a slave who loves his family, and is willing to risk everything to make sure they’re safe. His master can’t stand the fact that he’s smart and creative, and is determined to make sure he stays in his place. Although the subject is a sensitive one which brings up lots of tender emotions, I think the book is well-written; the characters practically leap off the page trying to tell their story. The story being told is well-developed, and I was very impressed with the author’s determination to tell the story. I would recommend this book to everyone, and am eager to read more of this author’s works.
Kiera Northington
AAMBC Reviwer
Kiera Northington
AAMBC Reviwer
September 30, 2014
I read Uncle Tom's Cabin very early in my life. I was glad to have the opportunity to read the book by Mr. Waters. I was very captivated and in the end read the book in a day and a half. I felt the writing style was refreshing and I loved the plot. It kept me on the edge of my seat, in anticipation. Mr. Waters portrayed the characters as most people today can relate. I am sure all people can relate to their dilemma and their fortitude in their quest to reach freedom.
I enjoyed the plot and saw the emergence of civility in Loker as he comes to realize that God will make your enemies your footstool.
I look forward to book two, and I wish Mr. Waters much success in his future writings.
I enjoyed the plot and saw the emergence of civility in Loker as he comes to realize that God will make your enemies your footstool.
I look forward to book two, and I wish Mr. Waters much success in his future writings.
March 3, 2016
Burning uncle tom's cabin was a good read I cried, I cuss, I laugh but out of all this it show me what a mother will do for her child and Eliza did to be a slave and do what she done to safe her son was awesome. George her husband was a very smart man and his master didn't like that but in those day slave made a lot of things it was a good read
June 17, 2014
If you liked Uncle Tom's Cabin you will like this book. Taking place in Kentucky in 1851 it tells the story of two former slaves who escape with their child. A very good read that keeps you interested the entire book!
July 7, 2015
I thought Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin was a fabulous read. I don't keep many books I have read on my shelf, but this one will be an exception. It's definitely a keeper. I can't wait to see what else the author releases in the future.
Great read!
5 stars.
Great read!
5 stars.
October 14, 2014
Great read
Great read. could not put it down. now just waiting for the other books. read uncle Tom cabin eons ago.
Great read. could not put it down. now just waiting for the other books. read uncle Tom cabin eons ago.
August 7, 2018
Giving this book 3.5 stars.
I'm not quite sure why this book was titled as such since it only references what happens in the epilogue but was not disappointed in his the story borrows from the historic classic "Uncle Tom's Cabin". This was a quick, enjoyable read and would almost be considered "light reading" if not dealing with the topic of slavery. Great book as a family read our loud or privately. Looking forward to reading other books in the series and seeing the characters develop even more.
I'm not quite sure why this book was titled as such since it only references what happens in the epilogue but was not disappointed in his the story borrows from the historic classic "Uncle Tom's Cabin". This was a quick, enjoyable read and would almost be considered "light reading" if not dealing with the topic of slavery. Great book as a family read our loud or privately. Looking forward to reading other books in the series and seeing the characters develop even more.
September 27, 2018
Great Book
I never read the original Uncle Tom's cabin so I can't compare this book to the original. This, book Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin, was a great book on it's own. The book basically is about the underground railroad a slave family embarked on for their freedom. A really great book in this genre. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
I never read the original Uncle Tom's cabin so I can't compare this book to the original. This, book Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin, was a great book on it's own. The book basically is about the underground railroad a slave family embarked on for their freedom. A really great book in this genre. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
July 2, 2017
Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin was one of the best books I have read in many years! George, Eliza, and Harry's story as runaway slaves kept me literally on the edge of my seat. I would rank this book 10 stars if I could. It's every bit as good as Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin.
December 24, 2018
Burning Uncle Tom's Cabin
An idyllic slave story, if there ever was one. Slavery and escaping from it wasn't this easy for anyone. It is an enjoyable story, though, and quite easy to read. It's strength comes from its basis on the classic novel Uncle Tom's Cabin.
An idyllic slave story, if there ever was one. Slavery and escaping from it wasn't this easy for anyone. It is an enjoyable story, though, and quite easy to read. It's strength comes from its basis on the classic novel Uncle Tom's Cabin.
May 10, 2023
A moving re-telling of Uncle Tom's Cabin. Here proud, resourceful people face cruelty, degrading treatment and huge danger as they long for freedom.
At times, the writing is repetitive but the quality of the story and the importance of the message outweigh that.
At times, the writing is repetitive but the quality of the story and the importance of the message outweigh that.
January 4, 2018
Very intriguing re-telling of an old story. Kudos to Carl waters.
March 13, 2019
Excellent!
Was this book ever filled with suspense and emotion! Follow George and his family on a harrowing journey to freedom and the fight to keep his family safe and together.
Was this book ever filled with suspense and emotion! Follow George and his family on a harrowing journey to freedom and the fight to keep his family safe and together.
January 23, 2024
Freedom has its ups and downs
A very good escape story. Obviously there were some events that showed the unfairness and ignorance of how some Caucasians treated Afro Americans. But, there were also a few events that showed how people of different races can be civil with each other as well. Even though the escape turned out well, there were more issues to be resolved.
A very good escape story. Obviously there were some events that showed the unfairness and ignorance of how some Caucasians treated Afro Americans. But, there were also a few events that showed how people of different races can be civil with each other as well. Even though the escape turned out well, there were more issues to be resolved.
June 5, 2014
I was given this book to read for this review. But I would have read it anyway--it was enjoyable, fast-moving, and clearly written.
This book is the tale of George Harris, his wife Eliza (of ice floe fame), son Harry, and those around him in antebellum slave-owning Kentucky and the free state of Ohio under the ministrations of both slavery and the Fugitive Slave Act. It is also a retelling of Harriet Beecher Stowe's opus "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the book written by a little woman that started a great war.
The story opens as George, a slave of the Harrises of Kentucky, aims to better himself in life in the station where he finds himself loaned out to work for another man in a mill. He is smart, motivated, and a careful and loving husband and father. Unfortunately, his wife and son are owned by the Shelbys, but fortunately, they are good-hearted people (albeit slave-owners!) who give the Harrises space to live as man and wife for small moments here and there when he can get away from his duties. The Shelbys also own the eponymous Uncle Tom of the story's title.
The exigencies of the time being what they were, the Shelbys fall upon hard times and must sell three slaves desired by the slaver Haley: Tom, Eliza, and Henry.
Meanwhile, George is recalled by Harris to return from the mill, where he was able to use his native wits and quick mind, to the Harris plantation where he is treated as a mule to be beaten and broken until he submits to his fate as a slave.
The combination of George's awful treatment by the Harrises and the selling of Eliza, Tom, and Henry to the slaver tip George and his wife and son to escape their separate paths. There are many wild moments in the story where George is threatened with discovery or capture, and times when Eliza and Henry are close to exhaustion and failure. They are pursued relentlessly through Kentucky and Ohio as they all attempt to make the way to Canada. They are helped and hindered by friends and betrayers, and while the story moves along crisply, there are moments of great relief and humor to break the tension. I especially loved the moment when George said to a traveling companion "So now you speak horse?"
The author has done his homework, capturing the circumstances of life in the United States in 1851 in both the free and slave states. The people are fleshed out, with more to do than simply advance the story, and the story itself is plotted deftly. George is, by design, the hero of the story, and not Uncle Tom, and George comes across as a good, honest man who is tempted to terrible actions to avenge not just his captivity but the attempted capture of his wife and son. This book is the first of a promised series, and it is clear that there will need to be further books to tell us if -- well, I don't want to give away the ending of this book.
The writing style is clear and lucid, and shows the skill of someone who writes well naturally. It is an easy read, and suited for an afternoon or two in the sun, but as it shows signs of careful research, it would also be useful as an additional resource for classes about the pre-Civil War America.
I did not give this the full five stars only because I felt that, well-written as it is, it seems almost too kind to certain people. I would have liked to see a little more real danger and damage, but given the audience for the book, the presentation of the book might simply be to encourage young adults to read it with the approval of their parents.
I look forward to reading the promised sequels.
This book is the tale of George Harris, his wife Eliza (of ice floe fame), son Harry, and those around him in antebellum slave-owning Kentucky and the free state of Ohio under the ministrations of both slavery and the Fugitive Slave Act. It is also a retelling of Harriet Beecher Stowe's opus "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the book written by a little woman that started a great war.
The story opens as George, a slave of the Harrises of Kentucky, aims to better himself in life in the station where he finds himself loaned out to work for another man in a mill. He is smart, motivated, and a careful and loving husband and father. Unfortunately, his wife and son are owned by the Shelbys, but fortunately, they are good-hearted people (albeit slave-owners!) who give the Harrises space to live as man and wife for small moments here and there when he can get away from his duties. The Shelbys also own the eponymous Uncle Tom of the story's title.
The exigencies of the time being what they were, the Shelbys fall upon hard times and must sell three slaves desired by the slaver Haley: Tom, Eliza, and Henry.
Meanwhile, George is recalled by Harris to return from the mill, where he was able to use his native wits and quick mind, to the Harris plantation where he is treated as a mule to be beaten and broken until he submits to his fate as a slave.
The combination of George's awful treatment by the Harrises and the selling of Eliza, Tom, and Henry to the slaver tip George and his wife and son to escape their separate paths. There are many wild moments in the story where George is threatened with discovery or capture, and times when Eliza and Henry are close to exhaustion and failure. They are pursued relentlessly through Kentucky and Ohio as they all attempt to make the way to Canada. They are helped and hindered by friends and betrayers, and while the story moves along crisply, there are moments of great relief and humor to break the tension. I especially loved the moment when George said to a traveling companion "So now you speak horse?"
The author has done his homework, capturing the circumstances of life in the United States in 1851 in both the free and slave states. The people are fleshed out, with more to do than simply advance the story, and the story itself is plotted deftly. George is, by design, the hero of the story, and not Uncle Tom, and George comes across as a good, honest man who is tempted to terrible actions to avenge not just his captivity but the attempted capture of his wife and son. This book is the first of a promised series, and it is clear that there will need to be further books to tell us if -- well, I don't want to give away the ending of this book.
The writing style is clear and lucid, and shows the skill of someone who writes well naturally. It is an easy read, and suited for an afternoon or two in the sun, but as it shows signs of careful research, it would also be useful as an additional resource for classes about the pre-Civil War America.
I did not give this the full five stars only because I felt that, well-written as it is, it seems almost too kind to certain people. I would have liked to see a little more real danger and damage, but given the audience for the book, the presentation of the book might simply be to encourage young adults to read it with the approval of their parents.
I look forward to reading the promised sequels.
October 14, 2014
The title Burning of Uncle Tom’s Cabin is a metaphorical message of the author’s intent to destroy the negative and stereotypical portrayals of black people in the original Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Carl Waters points out in the Introduction, that although Beecher was less racist than many of her contemporaries in that she believe that black people had souls and that slavery was wrong, she believed in the superiority of white people and the inferiority of black people. For readers of Stowe today, this view is distorted and damaging.
Waters presents his own take on the original story, expanding the role of a minor character, George Harris, who refuses to accept that he is inferior or that he must remain a slave. The story is told from the point of view of George and his wife Eliza who are admirable and courageous characters. They take risks almost unimaginable for the sake of their love for each other and their son. The cruelty of George’s slave owner, Frank Harris, and viciousness of the slave catchers are vivid in Water’s descriptions bringing the reader in terrifying propinquity to the horror of slavery.
The story quickly drew me in and I journeyed beside both George and Eliza as they attempt to escape to Canada. At no point did the pace of their story lag nor did I lose interest in supporting their journey. At times the suspense was so high for me that I needed a break; but then I am considered a soft touch. At times the naiveté and trust of Eliza seemed unrealistic; however, since it probably comes from her protected and sheltered life as a “house slave”, it is more believable.
Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin is the first of a four book series. Waters has met his goal of creating black characters of depth and confidence while exposing the inhumanity of the institution of slavery. He has also created a book with suspense, a compelling story and descriptions that give the reader a vivid experience of the journey George and Eliza traveled. In the end, Waters leaves the reader eager for his next book.
Waters presents his own take on the original story, expanding the role of a minor character, George Harris, who refuses to accept that he is inferior or that he must remain a slave. The story is told from the point of view of George and his wife Eliza who are admirable and courageous characters. They take risks almost unimaginable for the sake of their love for each other and their son. The cruelty of George’s slave owner, Frank Harris, and viciousness of the slave catchers are vivid in Water’s descriptions bringing the reader in terrifying propinquity to the horror of slavery.
The story quickly drew me in and I journeyed beside both George and Eliza as they attempt to escape to Canada. At no point did the pace of their story lag nor did I lose interest in supporting their journey. At times the suspense was so high for me that I needed a break; but then I am considered a soft touch. At times the naiveté and trust of Eliza seemed unrealistic; however, since it probably comes from her protected and sheltered life as a “house slave”, it is more believable.
Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin is the first of a four book series. Waters has met his goal of creating black characters of depth and confidence while exposing the inhumanity of the institution of slavery. He has also created a book with suspense, a compelling story and descriptions that give the reader a vivid experience of the journey George and Eliza traveled. In the end, Waters leaves the reader eager for his next book.
February 20, 2017
A moving story! Eliza and George's plight highlight the horrors of slavery.
August 21, 2014
“Burning Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” is the retelling of part of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” by Harriet Beecher Stowe. This book is the first of a four part series. The retelling of the story by Carl Waters gives the reader stronger and more intelligent African American characters than Stowe’s original ones. It is an interesting concept author Carl Waters is pursuing in this series. However, it takes a few chapters for the author to find his groove; once he relaxes into the story, the read is smooth. I enjoyed the new take on the characters, but felt the author a few times has the characters thinking more like people from the twenty-first century than the nineteenth century. The story moves along rapidly and certainly held the interest of this reader. Even with the changes in the characters, they have retained their strength and appeal. It has been a long time since I have read the original “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” but I felt the integrity of the story was still intact.
I look forward to the remaining three books in the series, as Waters has promised the story becomes more his own and less of just a retelling of Stowe’s original manuscript. It will be interesting to see where he will lead his readers.
This new African American author has a refreshing voice that has great promise. He is willing to venture into areas of previous literature others have only talked about rewriting. I recommend this book with four stars.
The author sent this book to me.
I look forward to the remaining three books in the series, as Waters has promised the story becomes more his own and less of just a retelling of Stowe’s original manuscript. It will be interesting to see where he will lead his readers.
This new African American author has a refreshing voice that has great promise. He is willing to venture into areas of previous literature others have only talked about rewriting. I recommend this book with four stars.
The author sent this book to me.
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