The Others at Monticello- Volume I
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
Sacramento Area Publishers/Authors Annual—Vol. I—Historical Fiction and Overall Gold, 2004
Online Review of Books—Best of the Year, 2004
Writers Notes Magazine—Vol. II—Legacy—Notable 2005
The Others At Monticello, volume I is is a historical fiction novel that draws heavily upon the Thomas Jefferson's personal library at Monticello to portray the story of his relationship with his slaves, especially Sally Hemings and her children. Volume I especially focuses on the course of events that bring Sally Hemings' son, Beverly, close to the former President. The vivid prose brings members of the Hemings family to life; no fewer than 10 years of research flesh out this captivating tale of bonds, prejudice, and interpersonal relationships.
- Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA)
What do you know about the “others” who lived at Monticelllo? How would it have felt to be part of the Hemings family, wondering about your physical features and why you were treated differently from many other slaves? Volumes of history and biography have recorded Thomas Jefferson’s life and works. Some call him “Democracy’s Champion.” Countless persons have visited his unique home, heard of his daughters, his grandchildren. More people are learning about his second home, the Natural Bridge, and the Peaks of Otter. Many readers know of his slave, Sally Hemings, and recently about her descendants; few are aware of her parentage. Nor have many been informed of the contributions of her brother, John Hemings - his great talent as an artisan in wood. Virginia law decreed that slaves should not learn to read and write, yet there is tangible evidence they did. Jefferson’s personal Library was a source of much pride and satisfaction to him; would members of the Hemings family have known about these books? How are all the above individuals connected to the War of 1812?
About the Author
Esther Franklin’s historical novel, The Others At Monticello is the result of ten years of research. She lived in Charlottesville, Virginia, for three of those years and spent many hours at both of Thomas Jefferson’s homes. She also used extensive resources at the Library of Congress and other institutions in addition to scholarly books about the Third President. She became acquainted with a number of his descendants. Following publication of the book, she made presentations at educational meetings, such as California Council for the Social Studies and California Association of School Librarians as well as to other groups, Book Clubs and Humanist Forums. Thomas Jefferson: Inquiry History for Daring Delvers has roots in discussions/reactions following her talks. Plus it is the result of more years of study of books, films, and created/recordings about Jefferson created since she began her original research - a number of these are not as complimentary as those she first examined. Her new volume - non-fiction - is intended for a wide audience. It might be used in both high school and college classes. Or it may be interesting for Book Clubs or Senior Home Presentations.