Roll Of Thunder Hear My Cry Essay

Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor, gives a wonderful example of how life may have been for African American individuals, during a time of sever racism. The Logan family is faced with several turbulent events. Characters are faced with turbulent events that are life changing, along with forcing characters to grow up to soon. These events allow characters to grow over the years. Taylor shows each character change their characteristics to become a strong, wise young child. Taylor also makes it is clear to see how the children, within the book, mature with the influences of other family members. readers are able to see each characters grow within themselves though out the book, this is nothing but true when reflecting Cassie Logan’s

She soon resembles characteristics of her mother. Mama, Mary Logan, is known to be a radical. She is not afraid to stand up for what she believes or what is right. While in her forth grade classroom Cassie stands up for what she feels is right. Cassie is given used books that are no longer needed in white schools. The books are old and dirty, they are also labeled “nigras”. Cassie shows Ms. Crocker her book and Ms. Crocker replies “that’s what you are” (p. 27). as a result Cassie refused her book due to the circumstances and is whipped by Ms. Crocker. This is the first time Cassie stands up for herself and color. However; readers soon see Cassie grow up by experiencing racism in the south. After experiencing turbulent events in her life Cassie soon realizes what racism is. Near the middle of the book readers see Cassie make her change as an African American female faced with racism. While speaking to Mama, Cassie states “white people may demand our respect, but what we give them is not respect but fear’’ (p. 129). Cassie’s mother tries to calm Cassie by stating, “baby, we have no choice of color we’re born or who our parents are or whether we’re rich or poor” (p.129). As a reader it is clear Cassie is not happy with being the minority within her community. These few events are an insight as to how Cassie is forced to grow up with the influences of racism in her