Read assigned book. Analyze book in a 3 page ESSAY (not bullet points, so make sure you have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion) based on the questions provided below. Answer each question. Grade based on your ability to address each point. If you are unable to find material on a specific point clearly articulate this in your analysis and explain. Check syllabus for due dates. No late work.

What is the Author’s argument (what point is he/she trying to make)?
Who is the author (Outline his background/high level)? Why is he/she qualified to write the book? 3. What is the book purpose?
What is the layout and approach of the book?
What sources are used? What were the primary sources if any? What were the secondary sources if any? What is the difference between primary sources and secondary sources? Look up. Primary documents are written or constructed at the time of the event (journal, map, interviews). A secondary document is other people’s interpretation of the primary sources. Both types are important in history making. Explain and give specific examples of the sources used by the author in the book.
Is the book effective? Why or Why not? Be specific.
What do reviews say about the book (who was the reviewer)? How does book fit in with other similar books on the topic?
How does this book fit into this class? Be specific
Does the book enhance our understanding of History? If so how? If not, why not? Provide a reflection.
What was the most striking statement in the book to you? (Write out a powerful quote from the book, explain the quote, why did it strike you, how it fits with the overall purpose of the book). Cite page.
In addition, in your analysis weave in the following book questions:
How does the book connect with the fugitive slave act, explain the act. Why was it important for abolitionist to fight slavery throughout America even though some states were free states.
How do you think this book compared to the movie? If you have not seen the movie, look up reviews and summaries of the movie and compare. What was left out and why? How was the movie received? Why?
Why is Northup’s narrative important to us as historians?
Do you think there were other slaves stolen that were never able to return to their families?
What can we learn from his experience and story? What does he story reveal about America and the debates about slavery and the politics of sectionalism that would eventually lead to the civil war?