The Book of Negroes

The geographic locations and settings of the novel are as important to its storytelling as the time period in which it takes place. Aminata focuses intently on finding a place where she feels at home—and she is not the only character in the novel in pursuit of a better home or place to settle. In what ways might people still impacted by the African Diaspora struggle to connect to a geographic “home”? Consider these points as you reflect on the text to answer the question.

• Does Aminata ever really feel at home in a place?
• How do the Novia Scotians feel about their new land? Do they ever feel at peace there?
• What other characters experience displacement in the novel? Were they born in America or transported there?  

Teaching Suggestion: Many students of African or African American descent express not feeling “at home” in America. These feelings often extend toward the inability to trace family ancestries to reliable sources. You may wish to offer this activity as a journal prompt to allow them a safe space to discuss the topic.

Differentiation Suggestion: This discussion might be differentiated for ESL students by altering the prompt to allow them to discuss countries or cultures that reflect their own ancestry.