Washington Black.

"Washington Black" by Esi Edugyan is a compelling novel that traces the extraordinary journey of George Washington "Wash" Black, an eleven-year-old boy who escapes from a brutal life of slavery on a Barbadian sugar plantation. Through a series of transformative adventures, including scientific discovery and cross-continental travels, Wash's story unfolds against the backdrop of the 19th century, shedding light on the harsh realities of colonial Barbados and the stark contrasts between different worlds. The novel masterfully intertwines themes of freedom, identity, and resilience, making it a gripping and enlightening read.