This is a fast-paced novel about a slave uprising in Jamaica, told from the perspective of a young boy caught up in the brutal violence as their plantation overseers are defeated.
Moa is a young boy who has spent his entire life on a sugar cane plantation in Jamaica surrounded by cruel British overseers. After the death of an elderly woman who was close to Moa and his companions, his friend Tacky decides enough is enough. They have spent all their years living in fear from Misser Donaldson's harsh whips and their days toiling away in the scorching heat. Moa's father is against the uprising and worries for his safety whilst his mother is proud and sends him away with prayers.
Moa is among a group of slaves who take on the white plantation owners, killing the men (and their children) who made their lives a misery. Moa is conflicted about his questionable deeds and has nightmares every night, filled with the white eyes of the dead men.
I found it interesting reading about the slave plantations from a boy's perspective as it gave a deeper insight into the horrors slaves experienced. Like Moa, I didn't agree with their decisions morally at times, although this is what made the book so compelling to read. I would recommend it to anyone who's interested in history and revolutions.
Cane warriors uses language beautifully. I loved the blend of standard English and dialect.
Cane warriors uses language beautifully. I loved the blend of standard English and dialect. Although it did take a little while to get used to the style and voice of the book. After a few chapters I really felt that I had grasped it. I would give this book an 8 out of 10. Because I found some of the brutality and violence in the book too vivid for me. But I congratulate Alex Wheatle on his book, because I understand the nature of the subject matter demanded a degree of realism.
Cane Warriors was an enjoyable and interesting read which enforced a moral story while also being fun and exciting.
Cane Warriors tells the story of Moa, a Jamaican slave in the 17 hundreds, as he plays his part in Tacky’s war to end slavery in 1760. It follows his journey as he fights, and kills for his freedom and his views on slavery and the European forces that enslaved them. The story recalls the true events of Tacky’s war, showing a younger and easier view of the slaves daily toil and their attempt to prevent it. This book was really enjoyable and interesting to read as it had a strong message and storyline, while also being informative and accurate. I would rate it as a 13+ as it contains quite a heavy storyline and may be harder for younger readers to understand.