A Good Book

Nellie lived with her family on a large plantation. The plantation had been in the family for generations. Nellie’s father owned slaves—hundreds of them. Because of the hard work of the slaves, Nellie’s family was very successful.

Nellie loved to read, and as a result, books were strewn throughout the house. Nellie’s nanny, Winifred, a black slave who had cared for Nellie since birth, spent most of her time picking up books after Nellie. Nellie was enthralled with books.

That afternoon, Nellie had left a book on the kitchen counter and slipped off to play with her friend, Rose. Rose was Winifred’s daughter, and they were the same age.

“What do you want to do today?” asked Rose with a smile.

“I know exactly what we’re going to do,” replied Nellie. “I’m going to teach you to read.”

“But I’m not allowed to read,” cautioned Rose.

“Says who?” asked Nellie. “You’ve got to read. It’s very important.”

The girls sat in the window seat, and Nellie began to show Rose the alphabet. Just then, Nellie’s father entered the room. He couldn’t believe what he saw. “Nellie, what in tarnation are you doing?” hollered her father. “You know slaves aren’t supposed to read!”

“Why not, father?” asked Nellie. “What’s wrong with reading?”

“Well, nothing is wrong with reading. It’s just that . . .”

Nellie quickly put her hand to her father’s face. “Then let’s continue our lesson,” interrupted Nellie. “Rose, say it again,” she continued, and her father walked out of the room.