One of the most acclaimed novels in recent memory, is a daring and ambitious work by pulitzer prize winner edward p. Tells the story of henry townsend, a black farmer and former slave who falls under the tutelage of will...One of the most acclaimed novels in recent memory, is a daring and ambitious work by pulitzer prize winner edward p. Tells the story of henry townsend, a black farmer and former slave who falls under the tutelage of william robbins, the most powerful man in manchester county, virginia.