A truly remarkable history of early colonial life in America. As an educated man and former merchant, John Harrower writes of his experiences, thoughts and desires with both precision and humor. Virtually the only journal of an indentured servant who had the education and station in life to record everything from what was ate at table to who was 'sleeping' with who in the servant's quarters, while nonchalantly logging reports of some "skirmish" up near Lexington where the colonials bested the British army.

In the midst of a deep depression in Great Britain and Europe, Harrower sets out from his home of Lerwick in the Shetland Islands and laboriously and steadfastly makes his way to London looking for work. After two weeks in London without securing a position he decides to indenture himself to America for four years, leaving behind his wife and their two young children. He keeps a journal from the outset, leaving behind a unique and fascinating history of travel in 18th century England, the hardships of the ocean crossing, life on an 18th century plantation employed as a tutor, slavery, colonial education, etc. Included are copies of letters he sent to his wife and detailed accounts of how he spent his money and on what.

Harrower comes alive in the pages of his journal as an amiable, hard-working, and detail-oriented man. His descriptions of the love affair between the squire's groom and housemaid, written in naval metaphor form, is hilarious. Unlike many colonial journals that describe life or travels in too little or too much detail, John Harrower strikes a perfect balance leaving behind a rare gem of historical and personal narrative. ( )