The first chapter of the book is narrated by Denver Moore, a modern-day slave. The first person that Denver introduces, and continues to interact with later in the book, is Miss Debbie. Miss Debbie, was the first white woman that spoke to him, much less challenge him. I thought it was a wise choice to begin this inspirational and emotional story with a specific example of these characteristics.
It is obvious that Denver did not have a perfect childhood. A very strong and emotional event that struck me early on in the story was when his Big Mama died in the house fire:
“Help me, Jesus! Save me!” she hollered, thrashin and coughin in the smoke. Then there was a loud crack and Big Mama screamed. I saw a big piece of wood crash down and pin her on her bed. She couldn’t move no more, but she kept hollerin, “Lord Jesus, save me!”
I only heard Chook holler one time then he was quiet. I stood there and screamed and watched my grandmother burn up.(ch.3, pg. 17)
The excitement of the moment mixed with the desperate tone of his Big Mama’s voice, paints a vivid image of the situation and his sensitivity to the situation. I look forward to seeing how these specific events in Denver’s life are relevant to the relationship between him and Ron Hall.
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