Relentless: A Family's Struggle to Survive is a harrowing tale of courage and survival. "Relentless: A Family's Struggle to Survive," tells a powerful story about slavery and how people fought to survive despite the terrible things happening to them. It shows how strong people can be even when facing the worst situations.

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Dr. Helen Fleming Johnson, a former middle school principal and a distinguished academic, holds degrees from the University of Texas at Austin, Prairie View, Texas, and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, with post-doctoral studies at Harvard University. Now residing in Lilburn, GA, Dr. Johnson brings her extensive background in education and history to the forefront in this literary endeavor. Her commitment to exploring and revealing the human condition shines through in her powerful story narration.

 

The book takes readers to North Carolina in 1861, in the middle of throes of the Deep South's brutal and unforgiving plantation life. The narrative centers on Old Grand Papa Pete, a determined patriarch, and his grandsons, who traverse the perilous path to freedom. Connected with their journey is the story of Eva Smith, a desperate and mentally unstable plantation owner facing the loss of her estate due to her husband's gambling debts.

 

The tale clearly depicts the contrast between the oppressed and the oppressors, showcasing the strength of the downtrodden and the ethical dilemmas encountered by people such as Eva. Pete's struggle to protect his family and Eva's descent into cruelty and despair create a powerful, dynamic tension that propels the narrative forward. "Relentless" is a must-read for in-depth look at human strength and optimism. A passage from the book perfectly captures this idea.

 

“Grand Papa Pete warns them to be cautious around Master Smith, who can be cruel and might sell them. He advises them to avoid alcohol and gossip and to be wary of Smith's wife, Eva, who might sell them if she suspects they are Smith's children. Mariah, their mother, also advises them to stay away from the Big House and to hide their relation to her to avoid danger.”

 

It emphasizes the critical need for vigilance and discretion, urging individuals to steer clear of risky behaviors like drinking, gossiping, and getting too close to the Big House. Amidst these warnings, it exposes the harsh truths of power imbalances and human nature, alongside how far the families will go to shield each other from harm. Ultimately,

 

it serves as a poignant reminder to navigate such perilous circumstances with utmost care, driven by a

​steadfast determination to secure freedom from exploitation and danger.