This book goes beyond the statistics and abstractness associated with slaves and slavery. It delves into the gamut of emotions experienced by the slaves on a day to day basis, and deals candidly with the severe conditions under which they toiled and lived. The story recounts not only the harsh punishments they suffered, but also the callous disregard for their humanity, as exhibited by the colonial masters; ultimately leading to that glorious moment when Sambo and the other slaves are finally "UNSHACKLED?"