The story begins in the West Indies on a plantation. A young slave boy is enlisted to be the assistant to the master's brother, Titch. He is a scientist/inventor of sorts and teaches Washington ("Wash") to read and help with his experiments. In the course of time, Wash witnesses the suicide of one of the master's family and is blamed for his death. He goes on the run with Titch and experiences places and people never dreamed of. This is not a book for the weak hearted as there are some graphic descriptions of slavery. Very interesting journey for a former slave. I was a bit disappointed in the ending, however.
