My African-American literature since World War II class has a deep impact on me. One of the books, Black Boy, by Richard Wright, made me think of my cousin. So I bought it for her, and gave it to her on her bday. I didn't know if she'd wanna read it, after all it's a college level book, taht I decided might be interesting to a 12 year old, whom, quite honestly I barely know. She is growing up in a white suburbia, she might have already had stereotypes within her, that would make her disinterested in a black writer of 1950's.

She texted me today, saying that she started reading it, and it's awesome. She's taking it with her to the Jamaican vacation she's going to with her family. I texted back, saying that we should get together, talk about the book and actually get to know each other.

I gave her the book, because I feel like it's very important to understand suffering, and prejudices. Being of Jewish descent, she should be able to relate to the Holocaust books, but to draw that parallel with another race, another history, to be able to understand why racism is evil and ignorant....that's what makes one humane. And by all means, I want her to be humane. I also think that reading about someone who knows right from wrong, even though everyone around him tells him otherwise, is extremely empowering. To find the strength in books and art, even if your family doesn't understand or support it. This is not the case with my family, and I know her parents push her into al kinds of extra curriculum activities, so that she;s well rounded. But they're always so damn critical of her. They have her best interest in mind, but somehow i get the feeling that neither her mom nor her dad can really see her. So I wanna be there for her.... Somehow...I think sharing thoughts on a book is a great start.