Book: Crossing the River

"Crossing the River" by Caryl Phillips weaves a poignant narrative spanning over two centuries, capturing the haunting echoes of displacement and survival across generations of the African diaspora. Anchored by the metaphorical and literal currents of the river, the novel explores the devastating consequences of the transatlantic slave trade through the intimate stories of three descendants.

In the 18th century, Nash, a Christian convert, grapples with the contradictions of his new faith and identity as he embarks on a missionary quest in Liberia. Martha, a former slave in 19th-century America, faces the harsh realities of freedom as she searches for her lost family. In 20th-century England, Travis, a mixed-race soldier, navigates love and alienation during World War II.

Phillips masterfully intertwines these narratives, emphasizing both the enduring impact of history and the resilience of the human spirit. With lyrical prose and a profound sense of empathy, "Crossing the River" invites readers to reflect on the shared, albeit fragmented, histories of those scattered across an ocean of loss and hope.