Yes, ‘Roots’ by Alex Haley is based on a true story. The book, published in 1976, is a historical novel that traces Haley’s family lineage back to his ancestor Kunta Kinte, who was captured in Gambia and sold into slavery in the United States. Haley spent years researching his family history, including traveling to Gambia and consulting historical records, to piece together the story of his ancestors. While the book is a work of historical fiction, it is grounded in real events and Haley’s own family history, making it a powerful narrative about the African American experience and the legacy of slavery.