Maine author writes historical fiction novel on the transatlantic slave trade

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - A Maine-based historical fiction author has released a novel aimed at preserving the truth about the horrors African Americans suffered through their experience with slavery and the role enslaved people played in the development of America.

Peter D. Brown, who has a deep interest in social justice and a passion for preserving history, wrote “I Am Jayvyn,” a work of historical fiction set in the early 18th century.

Book Summary:

“‘I AM JAYVYN’ is a compelling work of historical fiction positioned to remind readers of the reality of the transatlantic slave trade and the key role the enslaved played in the development of America.

“Cir. 1710: On a beautiful morning full of hope and promise, twelve-year-old Jayvyn’s world is suddenly shattered when English slavers raid his peaceful village. His father is killed, he is separated from his mother and little sister, and his home is left in flames. In a whirlwind of change, Jayvyn survives the horrors of the middle passage alone, landing in Barbados, where he endures two years of ‘seasoning’ on a sugar plantation. His adolescent development progresses under the tutelage of Andrew, a fellow enslaved African, in desperate circumstances he could never have imagined.

“In time, Jayvyn is sold again and survives another harrowing ocean voyage to South Carolina, where he is auctioned off to the owner of a growing rice plantation. Jayvyn lives his life amongst a diverse cast of fellow enslaved in a world where love, hate, and cruelty coexist as families are formed and separated at the whim of masters who see the enslaved as nothing more than chattel property. Colonial history unfolds while this resilient community of enslaved Africans adapt to an ever-changing world of oppression and subjugation.

“Over the course of his life, Jayvyn gains a healthy perspective on the virtues and flaws of humanity—even transcending the high threshold of forgiveness—leaving readers with abundant food for thought delivered in an appalling tale of pain and suffering, but also one of true faith and deliverance told through the clear lens of history.“

“I AM JAYVYN” can be purchased through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books and KOBO. Brown has also tried to make this book available as much as possible through local libraries, MILS, Mainecat, and other free lending sources.

For more information, visit Brown’s website.