An exciting blend of history, romance, and the struggle for social justice
- Book: The Sons and Daughters of Toussaint
- Location: Haiti
- Author: Keith Madsen
Love of all things Haitian shines through every word in Keith Madsen’s daring book. I use that adjective because to envision a future for a nation and its people takes courage. And it is Madsen’s vision that is the foundation for the dramatic story he has chosen to tell.
Isaac Breda is the modern protagonist of the novel and a descendent of Toussaint Louverture, the famous Haitian revolutionary and humanist who led the battle for his country’s freedom from France during Napoleon’s rule. We follow both of these men in alternating stories until the novel settles into the present and moves into what I found myself fervently hoping will be its future. A strong theme of courage in the face of overwhelming odds runs though this book, and the slogan “Nou pa pè!” – We are not afraid!” resounds from the pages.
Madsen has wonderful powers off description. Both the Haitian and New York settings come alive in this book and provide a strong sense of place. Combine that with the author’s sense of humor, his gift for painting heroes and villains equally well, and his inclusion of a love story of epic proportions and you get a book that is genuinely moving (in spite of a few pages that seem to belong in a philosophical treatise).
I now have a much better grasp of Haitian history and the tragedy of how, after achieving independence, Haiti has remain colonized on many levels and unable to make the progress that Toussaint dreamed about. What the book brings is a sense of possibilities, an affirmation that with wise and compassionate leadership Haiti could experience lasting change for the better.
I was touched and surprised by the ending.
Highly recommended for anyone with a true interest in Haitian history and culture, as well as vivid characters who embody the struggle for justice and economic well-being that continues to this day.
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