Book review – When We Returned: From Chains to Crowns

By Samuel AGYEMAN-PREMPEH

‘When We Returned: From Chains to Crowns’ is a poignant reflection on Ghana’s rich heritage, interwoven with the shadows of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade. Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, the coordinator of the Year of Return, masterfully combines historical facts and personal anecdotes, creating a compelling tapestry that evokes both sorrow and resilience.

His prose, infused with poetic lyricism, elevates the narrative to a profoundly emotional level. He gives credit to the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- Addo for his bold vision that birthed the Return but finds time to appreciate the efforts of the several people and organizations that played a role to make the Year of Return a Success.

Beyond Ghana’s borders, Agyeman embraces the broader African diaspora, celebrating the triumphs and struggles of iconic figures. His book serves as a clarion call for education and empowerment, urging readers to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the ongoing journey towards unity and liberation. Agyeman’s vision extends beyond mere leisure, advocating for a tourism industry that celebrates Ghana’s heritage and fosters deeper connections among the global African community.

“When We Returned From Chains to Crowns” also delves into the collective amnesia surrounding the painful history of enslavement. Akwasi Agyeman urges a reconnection with this past to foster a deeper understanding of Ghanaian and African identity.

His narrative embodies a heartfelt journey marked by passion and a quest for knowledge, emphasizing the resilience of the African spirit. Stories of resistance and triumph, such as the Fiok Festival of the Bulsa people and the defensive architectural designs in northern Ghana, enrich the book’s exploration. The remnants of the Slave trade in Ghana are carefully woven into the discussion to provide better context to the discussion.

The poetic Prologue and Epilogue capture the emotional depth of the African diaspora’s journey back to their roots during the ‘Year of Return’. Published by Lumière Creatif, this beautifully crafted work resonates with emotion and insight, making it an essential read for anyone interested in African history, Pan-Africanism, and the enduring spirit of the global African family. Agyeman’s vulnerability and passion shine through on every page, inviting readers to appreciate the past and contribute to a better future.

 

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