Susan Straight, A Million Nightingales

A Million Nightingales

Susan Straight

Pantheon, Mar 2006, $24.95

ISBN: 0375423648

In the early nineteenth century following the United States purchase of the Louisiana Territory from the French, Moinette a "mulatresse" is a personal slave to Cephaline, while her beloved mother works in the master's home near New Orleans. Moinette's life seems good to her, as her mistress treats her kindly and even shares books with her. However, when Cephaline suddenly dies, Moinette becomes expendable.

She is sold to another plantation owner. Ripped from her mother and a somewhat sheltered life, Moinette becomes a play thing to her new owner. Abused, assaulted and raped, Moinette eventually gives birth, but is once again ripped asunder from a loved one when she is sold and her child remains behind. Her dreams keep her going that one day she, her mom, and her child will be reunited.

This is a fascinating yet horrifying look at the de jure plight of a black female slave who must suffer sexual assault and humiliation. Adding to the overall feel of debasement is the comparisons to the lifestyles of her mistress. Though Moinette seems too enlightened about her place in society, readers will feel for her (impossible to fully empathize unless you lived the scene as being beneath the lowest rung of society), as historical readers get the rest of the story not included in the hasty books.