ABOUT
THE BOOK

Translated from the Dutch by Brian Doyle-Du Breuil

2015 Longlist

Based on historical facts and the movie starring Danny Glover and Jeroen Krabbé, Tula -The Revolt is a true story about the Great Slave Revolt on the Caribbean island of Curaçao in 1795. Tula, a slave on the Kenepa plantation, is convinced that God made all human beings equal: he finds it increasingly difficult to ignore the inequality and injustice meted out to his people from their Dutch rulers. Stirred by news from abroad that France has abolished slavery on neighbouring Haiti, and that the New Dutch Republic is now under French rule, he sets out to improve the position of his fellow slaves. Unable – and unwilling – to comprehend his efforts at peaceful resistance, the colonial authorities respond with force. Undeterred, Tula nevertheless succeeds in uniting and inspiring his people in their struggle for freedom and equality.

(From Publisher)

About the Author

Jeroen Leinders spent much of his youth on Curaçao. After a career in advertising, he turned his talents to making documentaries and films. His work as a director includes the film of the same name: Tula – The Revolt.

Librarians’ Comments

An inspiring historical novel based on the true story of the Great Slave Revol on Curaçao in 1795. Tula is an unforgettable novel, rich in historical detail and committed to telling a fascinating story about equality, freedom and brotherhood.

The gripping story, based on true facts, of the leader of the great revolt of the slaves on the island of Curacao in 1795. A dark page in the history of The Netherlands that no reader leaves unmoved.

True story of the slave revolt on Curacao in 1795. History becomes alive in this absorbing account of a man who speaks up for his people. His drive and passion for freedom can be felt deeply.

Based on true facts, this novel depicts a turbulent time in Dutch colonial history in a no-nonsense style.