The Bondwoman's Narrative

Thought to be the first novel written by a Black female slave, this work is both a historically important literary event and a gripping autobiographical story.

When her master is betrothed to a woman who conceals a tragic secret, Hannah Crafts, a young slave on a wealthy North Carolina plantation, runs away in a bid for her freedom up North. Pursued by slave hunters, imprisoned by a mysterious and cruel captor, held by sympathetic strangers, and forced to serve a demanding new mistress, she finally makes her way to freedom in New Jersey. Her compelling story provides a fascinating view of American life in the mid-1800s and the literary conventions of the time.


Written in the 1850's by a runaway slave,The Bondswoman's Narrative is a provocative literary landmark and a significant historical event that will captivate audiences.


Includes an updated preface adding additional context about the author's incredible life.