Every story deserves to be told. For centuries, the voices of African American people were systematically silenced, their histories erased from the official record. But what if those stories could be recovered, preserved, and shared with the world?
First-Time is more than just a book—it's a bridge between past and present, between oral tradition and written history. Richard Price has created something extraordinary: a work that honors the authentic voices of Saramaka people while providing scholarly context that enriches our understanding of their journey.
What makes First-Time truly remarkable is its innovative structure. Each page features living memories on top—transcripts of oral histories passed down through generations—followed by Price's thoughtful commentary below. This dual approach preserves the integrity of both sources, creating a dialogue between personal narrative and historical analysis that's both accessible and academically rigorous.
Read about the "Maroons" who escaped slavery and built thriving communities in Suriname's rain forests. These were real people with names, dreams, and struggles whose stories of resistance, resilience, and community formation have been waiting to be rediscovered. Through their own words, you'll gain insight into the daily life, cultural practices, and historical consciousness of a people who refused to be forgotten.
Now in its second edition with a new preface by the author, First-Time speaks to our current moment more powerfully than ever. As we continue to grapple with questions of memory, identity, and historical truth, this work reminds us that history is not just what's written in books—it's what's lived, remembered, and passed down through generations.
Whether you're a student of history, someone exploring your own heritage, or simply curious about the power of oral tradition, First-Time offers something profound. It's academic without being dry, accessible without sacrificing depth, and transformative in its ability to help us see history through new eyes.
Join the conversation about how marginalized communities reclaim their narratives. First-Time isn't just about the past—it's about understanding how history shapes who we are today and who we have the power to become tomorrow.
