This was a gut-wrenching tale of slavery written from the vivid memory of an enslaved man. The scenes are horrendous, and it gives an insight into the deep darkness of our country's past, as well as the lingering effects of the evils of slavery.

I don't think anyone in any position to review someone's true story of their own life! Solomon Northup's story happened in the 1840s. Northup was a free man in New York and was kidnapped to be sold as a slave and finally escaped after twelve abhorrent years.

I just want to thank Northup for sharing his story that has broken my heart so many times in many levels; moments that I was feeling so desperate that I forgot to breathe. I'm so grateful that slavery no longer exists (at least in the major countries). It is just so wrong and inhumane. It hurts me when (in the book), the white man deliberately told the coloured man that he is no different to an animal, that he is not human. It hurts me to read the parts where slaves are being beaten up to the worst of the worst for no reason or for pure pleasure. This book weighs my heart down. But in all the dark corners, the hope, the courage and the love conquered slavery.

I really recommend everyone to read this book, it has given me a new perspective towards life, my own self, other people and society.

This is so eye-opening. It’s shocking that Solomon was able to recount the horrors he’d been through. Probably the most inspiring book I’ve read; Solomon is an honest, determined, God-fearing man who never gave up.

Beautiful book. Took a while to get into the narrative but I loved it!

Incredibly gripping and is charged with emotion the strength of a million lightning bolts. Made me think at length about modern capitalism and it’s historical links to slavery as a profit making business. Makes you realise how many real lives were wrecked by the many-faced cannonballs of ignorance, cruelty and money.

I can see and understand the cultural significance of this book, but man, parts of it were extremely boring. Whole chapters on how to cut cane sugar or pick cotton. Hopefully, and I'm certain it does, the movie will have a bit more impact.

I had to read this for my African American Lit class and I honestly think it's a book that everyone should read. It was emotional and educational and I'm actually looking forward to starting my essay on it!