Frederick Joseph - Teachers Make a Difference - Ms. Stephens

The speaker reflects on the significant impact of Miss Stevens, their high school English teacher, who was their first black educator. Miss Stevens introduced them to black authors and literature, notably The Color Purple, which profoundly influenced their understanding of writing and storytelling. This experience helped the speaker appreciate diverse perspectives and shaped their identity as a writer.

How did the author's experience with Miss Stevens differ from previous educational experiences?

In what ways did the author feel seen and invested in by Miss Stevens?

What specific authors and works did Miss Stevens introduce to her students?

What role did Miss Stevens play in the author's understanding of literature?

Who was the most important educator mentioned in the text and why?