Finding the purpose of the novel is a challenge, because the initial reaction is one of shock and dismay. ... I found that the novel revealed to me an existence that I had never considered before. ... I read Black Boy in high school and was fascinated at how new and alien the books perspective was, and wished that I could get a deeper understanding of the theme. ... The representation of Bigger as the whole of the black people is still rejected by Bradley. ... By murdering Bessie, a black woman, he further alienates himself by drawing the wrath of his own people on himself. ...

• Word Count: 2755
• Approx Pages: 11
• Grade Level: High School