Charlotte’s Rich History Explored in New Novel ‘Unbound Gifts’

Charlotte’s Rich History Takes Center Stage in New Novel

In a delightful twist for literary enthusiasts, Charlotte has stepped out of the shadows of its sister cities, Savannah, Charleston, and New Orleans, to claim its own moment in the sun with the release of the captivating novel Unbound Gifts. This debut novel by Doug Young, who hails from nearby Cornelius, brings to life themes of war, servitude, and resilience, set against the backdrop of the mid-19th century.

Meet Henry Freeman

At the heart of this engaging tale is Henry Freeman, an enslaved youth whose extraordinary mental capacities elevate him from a life on a plantation to the bustling world of North Tryon Street in Charlotte. As the story unfolds, you’ll see how Henry navigates the grueling realities of the Civil War. Young has woven together an intriguing storyline that feels both rich and authentic.

Meticulous Research Behind the Story

What truly sets Unbound Gifts apart is the amount of elbow grease that Doug Young poured into his research. A former medical researcher with a PhD in cellular biology, Young spent six long years delving into archives such as the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Robinson-Spangler Carolina Room and even the Library of Congress. His goal? To ensure that every detail about 1800s society, local landmarks, and medical practices was spot on. “I wanted to be accurate,” Young recounted. “As scientists, we used to joke that when you graduated, doing research was what you knew best.”

Charlotte Comes to Life

Throughout Unbound Gifts, familiar landmarks pop up, making the story feel incredibly connected to the Charlotte we know today. The old Mecklenburg Iron Works, the longstanding First Presbyterian Church—where Black worshippers were delegated to the balcony—and the elegant Mansion House Hotel all feature prominently in the narrative. The author even includes notable historical figures from the city, such as William Phifer, whose home is believed by many to have been the site of the last Confederate Cabinet meeting.

The Journey of a Young Boy

Henry Freeman’s voice narrates the story, revealing his life through his eyes in the year 1888. The tale begins with Henry, who learned from his mother, a root doctor on the plantation, about various medicinal plants and their uses. She warns him to keep his remarkable powers—a remarkable photographic and aural memory—hidden. However, when this extraordinary talent is discovered, it takes a turn that alters his life forever.

From the moment his plantation owner, Dr. Robert Parker, takes him under his wing, Henry’s world shifts dramatically. He finds himself in a new life of chores, laboratory mixing, and even serving as a playmate for Dr. Parker’s son, Matthew. Henry grapples with the notion that perhaps Dr. Parker is just fascinated by him because he is a remarkable curiosity.

A Tumultuous Path

The Civil War arrives with its own brand of chaos, and Henry is sent along as a servant as Matthew enlists to fight for the Confederacy. However, complications arise when Matthew sustains injuries that lead him to a tragic fate at Gettysburg. In a poignant twist of fate, Matthew signs papers freeing Henry before he succumbs to his wounds, propelling Henry into a brave new world.

Choices and Opportunities

As freedom dawns upon Henry, his journey takes him to Philadelphia, where he meets noted abolitionist Robert Purvis, who helps him enroll in the Ashmun Institute—one of the first higher education establishments for Black students in the country. Yet, even as he flourishes, Henry faces a difficult decision: should he stay in Philadelphia or return to North Carolina in search of his mother who he fears may still be on the plantation?

A Timeless Reflection

Unbound Gifts not only shines a spotlight on Charlotte’s intricate past but also prompts readers to ponder a lingering question: How many individuals like Henry could have risen to greatness if they had been recognized and given the opportunity to nurture their unique talents? Available for purchase on Amazon starting September 24, 2024, at $19.95, this novel is one you won’t want to miss.

With 405 pages of engaging storytelling, Doug Young has truly stepped into the literary arena with a novel that honors the spirit of perseverance against overwhelming odds.