Starting with research on the "information wanted" ads placed after the Civil War, Williams delves into her subject matter, creating a heartbreaking look at what it was like to be a freed slave searching for family—the spouse sold or freed now remarried, the child separated now no longer a child but a grown man or woman—the stories she brings to life add a dimension to a part of history we hear a lot of about, but understand so little. This book caught my attention after listening to Williams on NPR, and it really brought to life the human dimension often missing from discussions on what freedom meant to those it affected. It also gave an interesting glimpse into every day rights that we take for granted (marriage, education, etc) that slaves were denied and how they worked around this, sometimes with the help of their slave owners. I would definitely recommend to anyone interested in the time period. Well written, well researched, well worth your time. Enjoy! - Anne