If you’re looking for a good read that is quick but full of history, the autobiography “Restavec: From Haitian Slave Child to Middle Class American” is a great book to start with. “Restavec” is a quick read, but also packed full of intense stories. The author, Jean-Robert Cadet, who will be visiting UCBA on Feb. 23, tells the story of how his life journey brought him from being a Restavec, or slave child, in Haiti beaten and tormented nearly every day to an American who earned his Master’s right here at University of Cincinnati.
As you read his story you cannot help but feel for this person who has dealt with extreme hardships in his native country and with the unforgiving racial discrimination in America as well. But it is not all sad, the naivety he has about some of the most commonplace things is something any reader could enjoy or perhaps relate to. His struggle and journey through the many stages of his life are humbling and inspirational, similar to the many other stories we hear during February’s designated Black History Month. You can find this book at any library or bookstore in Cincinnati, so pick up a copy today.