Find quotes from this novel, with commentary from Shmoop. Pick a theme below to begin.
Literature and Writing Quotes
[Treelore] even start writing his own book, bout being a colored man living and working in Mississippi. (1.8)
Race Quotes
"A bill that requires every white home to have a separate bathroom for the colored help. I've even notified the surgeon general of Mississippi to see if he'll endorse the idea. I'll pass." (1.32)
Society and Class Quotes
They ain't rich folks. Rich folks don't try so hard. (1.15)
The Home Quotes
"Please, I want him to think I can do it on my own. I want him to think I'm…worth it." (3.99)
Love Quotes
Problem is, much as I love the Lord, churchgoing man never do all that much for me. Kind a man I like ain't the kind that stays around after he done spending all you money. (2.124)
Violence Quotes
Mae Mobley make an ugly face at me and then she rear back and bowp. She wack me right on the ear. (2.81)
Gender Quotes
"Oh, we're gonna have some kids. […] I mean, kids is the only thing worth living for." (3.38)
Education Quotes
I saw the way my mama acted when Miss Woodra brought her home, all yes Ma'aming, No Ma'aming. I sure do thank you Ma'aming. Why I got to be like that? I know how to stand up to people. (3.130)
Justice and Judgment Quotes
But it wasn't too long before I seen something in me had changed. A bitter seed was planted inside a me. And I just didn't feel so accepting anymore. (1.10)