The House of Rougeaux by Jenny Jaeckel

The House of Rougeaux by Jenny Jaeckel is the story of a family from it's enslaved African ancestor to mid-century America, touching on the African-American experience over time, including slavery, cannon fodder in wartime, the victim of hate crimes, but also traces the inherent skills, intelligence, and resilience that crosses generations.

The story skips through time and place (Martinique, Montreal, New York City) in a non-linear presentation, with some generational stories more compelling than others, but overall an interesting read and a thoughtful look at oppression racism throughout North American history.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy as a LibraryThing win from Raincloud Press.

Hardcover $26.95
ISBN 978-1-941203-24-8

from the publisher:

Following echoes between generations which defy normal time and space, a multilayered narrative celebrates the ROUGEAUX family triumphs while exposing the injustices of their trials. It begins with Iya, born in Africa in the 1700s, and brought to the Caribbean island of Martinique as a slave, and her two children, Adunbi and Abeje, who grow up on a sugar estate. The siblings endure because of the kindness of fellow bondsmen and their uncommon abilities. A grandchild becomes emancipated in Quebec City, great-grandchildren find their way in Montreal, a great-great-grandchild runs off to Philadelphia, and another risks everything in New York City. As each new member of the family takes the spotlight, a fresh piece of the puzzle is illuminated until at last, a homecoming uplifts them all.