River Sing Me Home

When Emancipation Day arrives in August 1834, those on Providence Plantation in Barbados are beside themselves, imaging what their newfound liberty might bring. Despite their anticipation, the master informs them they must stay for another six years to serve as his apprentices. Under cover of darkness, Rachel decides she can no longer bear the pain of not knowing where her lost children are. So, she begins a journey in search of the loved ones she’s dreamed of for years, ever since they were taken from her, sold into slavery, while others simply perished, even before drawing their first breaths. What she discovers in the end is both heart-rendering and beautiful.

This is a transformational story of hope, perseverance, and courage that will inspire readers to believe in the impossible as they follow this woman’s trail along the Caribbean coast from Barbados to British Guiana. The narrative is harrowing, poignant, and touching. It shows the depths of a mother’s love as she uncovers the path between past and present, good and evil, and the resilience of the human spirit when faced with unspeakable odds. Eleanor Shearer’s background knowledge from fieldwork in St. Lucia and Barbados and her eloquent prose make this a truly captivating read.