Palmares is the long-awaited epic novel by American author Gayl Jones. Published in 2021 by Beacon Press, the novel had been in the works for almost forty years. Set in 17th-century Brazil, a group of slaves escapes servitude to build a thriving community. Almeyda is a young slave girl who grew up on a plantation. She finally escapes to a safe haven for runaway slaves called Palmares.
The community is eventually attacked and destroyed, leaving many scattered and in danger. Almeyda decides to make a daring journey across Brazil in search of her missing husband. Throughout her journey, she comes across the evils of colonialism, greed, and war. Almeyda meets people like her, desperate for freedom and something to believe, in a world without hope.
In this historical tale, the author takes us on a wild and winding road to rediscovery. All her life, Almeyda has been nothing but a slave with no individual identity. Through this journey, she rediscovers herself as a woman and experiences life from the perspective of people from diverse backgrounds.
Palmares is a revolutionary story that examines concepts of race, gender, servitude, and freedom. It pays great homage to Afro-Brazillian heritage and culture. Jones' execution combined with her magical realism truly showcases a literature master at work. Her ability to blend significant historical periods with what is culturally going on in present time is truly enlightening.
