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David J. Mason, owner, and founder of HMG ePublishing, LLC, is a digital publishing entrepreneur and experienced senior executive who has been on the Internet since 1997, providing technological and telecommunication services. He has executive-level experience leading, administering, and directing scientific and technological operations in a wide range of government, academic, private industry, and public organizations. His digital publishing curiosity began during the very early formation stages of the digital publishing industry when he converted one of his previously published traditional manuals into an electronic book. A Civil War and Black history enthusiast, Mr. Mason researched Private Parson Sykes' military service and wrote The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes based on his findings. Born and raised in Norfolk, he holds a Master of Science degree from Hampton University in Virginia and a Bachelor of Science degree from Norfolk State University. He is a graduate of the United States Army War College.
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes: Enlistment in the Union Army XXV Corps by David J. Mason is a riveting historical fiction novel that places its protagonist at the heart of the Civil War's most challenging and transformative moments. At only seventeen, Parson Sykes is an African-American youth navigating from the oppressive "contraband of war" status to becoming a soldier in the United States Colored Troops (USCT) as a member of the XXV Army Corps. It's important to note that although The Self-Liberation of Parson Sykes is historical fiction, David J. Mason delivers an emotionally compelling story of his great-grandfather, Parson Sykes’s journey toward freedom, giving readers a deeper understanding of the complex challenges that Black soldiers faced.
I’ve read the first book, and this second novel is equally as riveting. You don’t need to read the first to follow the second, but it is an excellent companion and will help with the background. Mason spent much time researching the history of the XXV Army Corps, an all-Black unit in the Union Army. The portrayal of military life is intense and realistic, reflecting the harsh realities of the time and celebrating the personal and collective victories of those who fought for freedom. Mason writes with such finesse and recounts the Civil War as if you’re living it with Parson. The story pays tribute to African-American soldiers and their courage and strength while highlighting the long and ongoing journey toward civil rights. Mason has penned a literary masterpiece that everyone can learn from. I highly recommend this book.
