The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes | Enlistment in the Union Army


Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
264 Pages
Reviewed on 09/27/2024
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Author Biography

David J. Mason, owner and founder of HMG ePublishing, LLC, is a digital publishing entrepreneur and experienced senior executive, who has been on the Internet since 1997 providing technological and telecommunication services. He has executive level experience leading, administering and directing scientific and technological operations in a wide range of organizations in government, academic, private industry, and the public. His digital publishing curiosity began during the very early formation stages of the digital publishing industry when he converted one of his previously published traditional manual into an electronic book. A Civil War and Black history enthusiast, Mr. Mason researched Private Parson Sykes' military service and wrote The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes based on his findings. Born and raised in Norfolk, he holds a Master of Science degree from Hampton University in Virginia, a Bachelor of Science degree from Norfolk State University and is a graduate of the United States Army War College.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes: Enlistment in the Union Army XXV Corps by David J. Mason is a riveting historical fiction novel that places its protagonist at the heart of the Civil War's most challenging and transformative moments. At only seventeen, Parson Sykes is an African-American youth navigating from the oppressive "contraband of war" status to becoming a soldier in the United States Colored Troops (USCT) as a member of the XXV Army Corps. It's important to note that although The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes is historical fiction, David J. Mason delivers an emotionally compelling story of his great-grandfather, Parson Sykes’s journey toward freedom, giving readers a deeper understanding of the complex challenges that Black soldiers faced.

I’ve read the first book, and this second novel is equally as riveting. You don’t need to read the first to follow the second, but it is an excellent companion and will help with the background. Mason spent much time researching the history of the XXV Army Corps, an all-Black unit in the Union Army. The portrayal of military life is intense and realistic, reflecting the harsh realities of the time and celebrating the personal and collective victories of those who fought for freedom. Mason writes with such finesse and recounts the Civil War as if you’re living it with Parson. The story pays tribute to African-American soldiers and their courage and strength while highlighting the long and ongoing journey toward civil rights. Mason has penned a literary masterpiece that everyone can learn from. I highly recommend this book.

Frank Mutuma

In The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes by David J. Mason, Parson was a slave on the plantation of Jacob Williams before embarking on his journey of self-liberation with his brothers. According to federal law at that time, escaped slaves were supposed to be returned to their owners, but General Butler set a precedent by refusing and calling them contrabands of war as the states had already seceded. As the war proceeded, the federal government authorized the employment of black men in military service, and Parson would serve in the Union Army. Even after President Lincoln issued the final Emancipation Proclamation, Parson and other black soldiers still faced racism in the army, but things would get better with time.

The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes by David J. Mason is wonderfully written and offers a perspective I didn't know about the Civil War and the subsequent emancipation of the enslaved black population. For instance, many people rarely consider what happened after slaves gained freedom with very few properties or resources to start their lives with. It also shows the critical role played by black soldiers in turning the tide in the Union's favor once enlisted. This thought-provoking work also got me thinking about the impacts of war not just on the military but also on civilian personnel. David quoted major historical events accurately, which is an indication the book was well-researched and can be used as a stepping stone for further reading. This was a very informative read, and I look forward to reading something else by David J. Mason.

Eric Ferrar

The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes by David J. Mason is an engaging historical novel depicting the life of Parson Sykes, Mason's great-grandfather. The author highlights Sykes' challenging journey to emancipation during the American Civil War. This era was a crucial period for interracial coalitions throughout American history. The Civil War era would eventually lead to the abolishment of slavery and the fight for equality and justice for all citizens regardless of racial background. Sykes was born into slavery and resided in Southampton County, Virginia. He meticulously devised his escape from his cruel owner, Jacob Williams. Mason's book highlights the ordeals Sykes endured during his bold escape. Sykes' goal was to join the Union army since they opposed slavery and establish himself there. Read this enlightening literary work to learn about Sykes' unique experiences in the Union Army XXV Corps.

The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes is an informative book that gives readers an excellent view of the historical events that unfolded during the Civil War. David J. Mason presents Sykes’ life in an orderly and concise manner, giving us a clear understanding of the various obstacles Sykes faced throughout his life--from slavery to freedom. Mason also paints a broader portrait of the social and political issues America faced as a nation while undergoing severe internal unrest. His in-depth exploration of Sykes’ decisions and frame of mind helps us identify with Sykes’ journey to freedom and the dangers he experienced to get there. The author writes with realism and careful attention to detail. Mason’s thorough research into this profound era is deeply respected and will not go unnoticed. I am confident that fans of historical fiction will treasure this inspirational read as much as I do.