Cane Warriors

Irresistible, gripping, and unforgettable, Cane Warriors follows the true story of Tacky's War in Jamaica in 1760. A powerful young-adult tale told through the eyes of Moa, a 14-year-old slave, this fictionalized account of the most significant rebellion of the time is rarely mentioned in history books or taught in schools.  

The story begins as Moa is awoken in the middle of the night by one of the rebels, who informs him that the revolt will begin on Easter Sunday. Moa's father doesn't like the idea of his son joining the rebellion, but his mother gives Moa her blessing. Together, Moa and his 16-year-old best friend, Keverton, take up arms, learning about brotherhood, courage, faith, and sacrifice along the way.  

Alex Wheatle's brilliant storytelling and characterization vividly bring to life the issues, pain, and the power structure of the era, along with the hopes and the dreams of the people. In writing this story, Wheatle's meticulous and extensive research evokes the stories and legends passed down by word of mouth over the centuries.

©2020 Alex Wheatle (P)2020 Recorded Books

A revolutionary classic

This novel is one of the greatest stories about rebellion I’ve ever read. Tacky stands besides Spartacus, Nanny of the Maroons, Toussaint Louverture, and Nelson Mandela as a revolutionary leader so charismatic, he seems like a legend, but he was very real. This book is inspiring and emotional and perfect for high school students, college students and adults looking for something that will get their book club talking. A stone-cold classic.