America's Prophet

The author narrates his "narrative of hope" with clarity and authority. Using well-documented research, he illustrates why African-American slaves clung to the Bible, in particular the Exodus narrative and Moses's story, as examples of hope. More journalist than historian, Feiler brings to life four hundred years of American history with what he calls "touchstone" narratives. He describes visiting the island where America's Founding Fathers experienced their first Sabbath, then the Liberty Bell, inscribed with the words of Moses. His depictions of slave trade stories, the Underground Railroad, and the inspirational singing that was part of slave culture--in particular the song "Go Down, Moses"--are emotional and believable. One is lead to ask: If Moses could split the Red Sea, could he heal and reunite America today? G.D.W. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine