I wasn't familiar with Lee Hawkins before picking up this book. I did not know him (at least by name -- I do think I've seen him in interviews but didn't know who he was) in his capacity as a journalist. So, my decision to read this book had nothing to do with him.

I just thought it sounded like a good book, and it was.

It's a deeply intense look at generational trauma and the effects it has personally, familially, and societally.

On the surface, this book is an autobiography -- a look into Hawkins' life and family. But in reality, it goes far beyond that. It's a stark look at black history, slavery, and the lasting effects it has had on the modern-day black community. It's the very definition of how knowing where you come from impacts the person you are today.

It's not altogether a "happy" book, but it does showcase Hawkins' journey of healing himself and his attempts to heal his family, as well. So, in that way, it does have a "happy ending," I suppose. I don't know. It's hard to explain a book like this. You can't say you "love it" because it's not the kind of book one loves. I mean, who loves hearing about someone else's trauma?

But it is an important book and one that you SHOULD read, if that makes sense. And it's written in such a way that it IS enjoyable... even though the content itself isn't meant to be enjoyed? I don't know. That probably doesn't make sense.

I saw another review that called the book "timely," saying, "Now more than ever, it is our duty to learn and share the lives, stories, suffering, and triumphs of our ancestors. I Am Nobody’s Slave is a testament to that responsibility and a crucial reminder of the work still left to do."

That is exactly what I'm trying to say, but that person said it much more eloquently than I could.

Not exactly what I thought it was going to be about, but it was still an informative look at Black families and how slavery still traumatizes that portion of our country.

This book should be read in an African American intergenerational book club. This book could bring some much needed healing to our community. I'm glad the author was able to forgive his parents, and I really loved that he used genealogy to help with this healing. I have a very similar story. I am appreciative to the author for sharing his story.