Our Nig by Harriet E. Wilson

Synopsis: Our Nig sketches the tragic story of a seven-year old mulatto girl who is left by her parents in the hands of people who become the young girl’s “employers”; and who treat her like an object.

Writing Style: Old-lit.

Pacing: Fast.

Personal Highlights: I loved this ‘semi autobiography’ for its post colonial dialect and tremendous storytelling. The sketching of ‘characters’ and the emotional pull on the senses relating to highly offensive affairs was challenging, but put in perspective engaging. While a few of the family members extend some compassion towards the young girl; comforting vestiges such as telling the child “better times are coming” after she’s been brutally kicked and beaten by a mistress who extends little compassion towards the child, or anyone else for that matter, was nonetheless consoling to know that this book likely was the first ‘novel’ written by a black woman.

Potential Audience: Everyone. Highly Recommended.