Walvin's book is an excellent summary of the most recent round of scholarship concerning the British end of the Atlantic slave trade. The book is short and to the point, but is very readable and laced with anecdotes. Walvin moves Africans to center stage as players in the drama equal in importance to the Europeans. Walvin's book would be an excellent choice for an undergraduate text or for someone just wanting to understand what the Atlantic slave trade was all about. Scholars will be familiar with most of the material that Walvin reports, but may find a few unfamiliar odds and ends. All in all, highly recommended.

Quakers influence in the English speaking world has been far greater than their numbers would indicate. This book was a fascinating read by an author who is not a Quaker himself. He became interested in Quakers (Society of Friends) through his research into the anti-slavery movement. But Friends have also had an immense impact on the world of commerce. We, in England and the U.S.A. don't barter/bargain because of the Quaker thoughts on fair-trade.

If you like history, you will enjoy this book.