Profile snaps up 'thoughtful' exploration of slave trade legacy in exclusive submission

Profile Books has acquired Human Resources, an insight into the legacy of the British slave trade by Renay Richardson, Arisa Loomba and Dr Alison Bennett.

UK and Commonwealth rights, including audio, were acquired for the book from Matilda Forbes Watson at WME, in an exclusive submission to assistant editor Calah Singleton.

Following the podcast by Broccoli Productions of the same name, Human Resources tells the true history of Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. "It goes beyond what we’re taught in school, grappling with the complicated legacies of colonialism and slavery that we live with every day – often without ever realising it," the synopsis reads.

"Structured around places, objects, institutions and practices – from Tate & Lyle to Newton’s apple – Human Resources reveals surprising connections and compelling insights, forming a bold examination of our collective heritage. Because to understand our present, we must fully grasp our past."

"Human Resources is a dream project for me," Singleton said. "From the moment I started listening to the podcast, I knew there was a fantastic book there: a book that would really dig into British history and shine a light on the myriad ways the legacy of slavery still touches our daily lives, connecting our past with our present in such a thoughtful, creative and accessible way. Renay is an absolute powerhouse, a brilliant creator whose insights and vision drive this project. I’m overjoyed to be working with the Broccoli Productions team to bring this critically important history to life."

The book will be jointly written by Richardson, creator of the podcast and founder of Broccoli Productions, and historians Loomba and Bennett who are the podcast’s researchers.

Richardson added: "I’m excited to evolve Human Resources into a new medium with the support of Profile and that the team behind the scenes of the podcast are able to have their voices heard through this vital and illuminating work."

Human Resources will publish in spring 2025.