Quaker Comet: Benjamin Lay: Anti-Slavery Pioneer

In "Quaker Comet: Benjamin Lay: Anti-Slavery Pioneer," the remarkable life of Benjamin Lay, a trailblazer in the fight against slavery, unfolds with dramatic intensity. Born in 1681 near Colchester and living with a disability, Lay's fierce advocacy began in Barbados and later flourished in Pennsylvania. This enlightening book not only revisits the pioneering biography by Roberts Vaux but also enriches it with autobiographical excerpts from Lay’s 1737 vehement critique of the African slave trade. Concluding with early texts on Quakerism and its stance on slavery, this narrative provides a robust historical context that enhances our understanding of early anti-slavery movements. Published on December 26, 2018, this book is a vital resource for middle-school students exploring the domains of racial justice, offering a compelling look at how one individual's unwavering principles can challenge societal norms and inspire change. By delving into Lay's life, readers are invited to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the power of steadfast conviction in the face of injustice.