Everfair A Novel
Everfair A Novel by Nisi Shawl is a reprint edition published by Tor Publishing Group on September 26, 2017. This 384-page work presents an alternate-history narrative set in the Belgian Congo, exploring the implications of African natives developing steam power before their colonial oppressors. The story imagines a scenario where Fabian Socialists from Great Britain collaborate with African-American missionaries to create a sanctuary named Everfair, aimed at providing a safe haven for native populations and escaped slaves.
Readers will find a rich tapestry of voices in Everfair, including those of Africans, Europeans, East Asians, and African Americans, all navigating complex relationships within the context of historical events. The novel delves into themes of colonialism and human rights, transforming a dark chapter of history into a thought-provoking exploration of potential outcomes had circumstances been different. Shawl’s narrative not only entertains but also educates, offering insights into a frequently overlooked period while engaging with topics such as alternative history and steampunk.
Official synopsis Publisher
From noted short story writer Nisi Shawl comes a brilliant alternate-history novel set in the Belgian Congo.
What if the African natives developed steam power ahead of their colonial oppressors? What might have come of Belgium’s disastrous colonization of the Congo if the native populations had learned about steam technology a bit earlier?
Fabian Socialists from Great Britain join forces with African-American missionaries to purchase land from the Belgian Congo’s “owner,” King Leopold II. This land, named Everfair, is set aside as a safe haven, an imaginary Utopia for native populations of the Congo as well as escaped slaves returning from America and other places where African natives were being mistreated.
Shawl’s speculative masterpiece manages to turn one of the worst human rights disasters on record into a marvelous and exciting exploration of the possibilities inherent in a turn of history. Everfair is told from a multiplicity of voices: Africans, Europeans, East Asians, and African Americans in complex relationships with one another, in a compelling range of voices that have historically been silenced. Everfair is not only a beautiful book but an educational and inspiring one that will give the reader new insight into an often ignored period of history.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Everfair A Novel” about?
Who is the author of “Everfair A Novel”?
When was “Everfair A Novel” published?
What is the ISBN for “Everfair A Novel”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
