Exploring the complex and morally challenging world of 19th-century transatlantic slaving, *Captain Canot; Or, Twenty Years of an African Slaver* serves as a captivating compendium that offers a piercing examination of human ambition and ethical ambiguity. The anthology seamlessly interweaves historical documentation with literary storytelling, capturing a diverse array of experiences and styles ranging from stark realism to evocative narrative prose. The texts collectively invite readers to contemplate the intricate web of relationships and societal structures that facilitated the slave trade’s proliferation. As the stories unfold, they grapple with themes of power, complicity, human suffering, and resilience, making it a significant and thought-provoking collection. The collaborative efforts of authors Brantz Mayer and Theodore Canot enrich this anthology, drawing from their diverse experiences and insights. Mayer, a notable historian and writer, brings a scholarly perspective to the grim realities of the trade, while Canot’s firsthand accounts illuminate the era’s moral complexities. Their works collectively reflect the broader 19th-century literary movements that grappled with historic events and moral questioning, demonstrating how their different yet complementary perspectives coalesce to afford a nuanced understanding of the time. This anthology offers an invaluable resource for those interested in exploring the multifaceted perspectives of an often-overlooked chapter in history. Readers are invited to immerse themselves in the narrative’s layered complexities, challenging their perceptions through a kaleidoscope of literary styles and historical viewpoints. As such, *Captain Canot* stands as an essential text for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of human history and morality, lending itself to educational discourse and personal introspection alike.