Super Short Summary

In a mix of historical and science fiction, Walter Mosley’s 47 (2005) follows a young teenage enslaved boy named Forty-seven in 1832 Georgia, whose life is transformed through his friendship with the enigmatic runaway slave Tall John, who hints at a cosmic destiny and deeper truths about freedom, as Forty-seven comes of age and gains self-awareness. The book includes graphic descriptions of violence and brutality toward enslaved people.