William Wells Brown

William Wells Brown was a remarkable figure in American history, born around 1814 in Kentucky to enslaved parents. Escaping from slavery as a young man, he became a passionate advocate for abolition and civil rights. Brown was not only a writer but also a lecturer and an activist, traveling widely to share his experiences and insights. His works, including novels, plays, and historical accounts, often centered on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of race and identity in 19th-century America.

As the first published African American novelist, Brown's contributions to literature are both significant and inspiring. His most notable works include "Clotelle," a groundbreaking novel that explores themes of love, family, and resilience within the context of slavery. Whether you're interested in history, social justice, or simply great storytelling, Brown's writings invite you to reflect on the human experience. We encourage you to delve into his works available in the app, where his powerful voice continues to resonate with readers today.

My Southern Home or, The South and Its People

Read by James K. White


William Wells Brown



William Wells Brown was born a slave, near Lexington, Kentucky. His mother, Elizabeth, was a slave; his father was a white man who never ack…

Clotel, or, The President's Daughter

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


William Wells Brown



Clotel; or, The President's Daughter is a novel by William Wells Brown (1814-84), a fugitive from slavery and abolitionist and was published…

Three Years In Europe

Read by James K. White


William Wells Brown



William Wells Brown was born a slave, near Lexington, Kentucky. His mother, Elizabeth, was a slave--his father a white man who never acknowl…