Jude and Diana

by Sharon Robart-Johnson

The only mention of Jude in Nova Scotia’s official history is of her death. In 1801 a slave-owning family was brought to trial for her murder. Robart-Johnson pays tribute to archival glimpses of enslaved people by recreating the fullness of the sisters’ survival.

Genres: Audiobook

324 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Vanessa Benoit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written book. It is an important story to read even though sometimes it can be difficult as it deals with a history that most Canadians do not know or don’t want to admit existed.

[David]

A very sad narrative, also angry, hopeful, and loving. Quite a mix. A "reconstruction" of sorts, rooted in the historical record which names Jude's death. Most of the narrative is not 'historical' in the strictest sense, but has been thoroughly researched and woven out of documentary parallels wherever possible. Slavery is never a delicate subject and one feels, reading this book, a revulsion for the whole attitude that allowed the thing to happen. Perhaps not surprisingly, the story focuses on the humanity of its Black characters as they live in a culture which often denies they are human.

[Colleen Maclennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heart wrenching read about the brutality and hate Jude , her sister Diane and mother / father endured from white families . Although Jude’s recount of her short but harsh life comprised most of book she did manage to make you laugh at times with her snide and sarcastic remarks . The cruelty , inequality and pure hatred of slaves was difficult to read and comprehend at times . There were a few white people who showed compassion but overall this book was such a tragic read.

[Terry Benoit · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for everyone. Heartbreaking and joyful too at times. Even “here” in Canada this happened. We still have a long way to go.

[Yvonne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has been meticulously researched to breathe life into the tragic lives of sisters Jude and Diana. The suffering and inhumanity inflicted on them and their family is heartbreaking.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this fictional account of two slaves’ life and death in Nova Scotia in 1800. The audio book was particularly compelling, to hear the tales in their voices.

[Janet Rimmington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad to have found this book. Impeccably researched, and expertly told, this tale gives life to women who were likely barely acknowledged during their short existences and certainly long forgotten.