Harriett Beecher Stowe’s classic novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin features a principal conflict between a black family, specifically a mother and her child, and their slave owner, who is a reasonable man but not without his qualms. The problem is that the mother, Sally, believes that her child will be sold, but her husband, George, and their owners, Mr. and Mrs. Shelby, reassure her that there is nothing to fear. This conflict may be resolved simply through the process of time, as Sally learns to trust the married couple which owns her family and develops a stronger bond with them.

So far, what I enjoy about this book is its formal diction and morose tone. Foreboding, yet simultaneously offering a glimmer of hope, the beginning of this book is thought-provoking in numerous ways. Tension is evident between the owners and their slaves as well as George and Eliza. Eliza, startled by what she perceives to be a change in George’s personality, wants to maintain the status quo, but George wishes to change the situation. This facilitates their separation to protect one another, which they hope will mutually benefit both in the future.

Painting a startling portrait of the times, this book instantly captivates the reader and maintains a firm hold on his/her attention.