This author, a native of Philadelphia, explores contemporary American society, delving into its social and cultural issues. Her writing is characterized by keen observation and a meticulous attention to detail, revealing the complexities of human relationships and identities within a dynamic environment. Through her literary work, she examines themes such as class, race, and gender, aiming to offer fresh perspectives on these intricate societal phenomena. Her writings are valued for their honesty and their capacity to provoke profound reflection.
Real-life stories of struggle, achievement, victory, and sometimes loss that are an ideal companion for history, social science, language and geography studies. The Extroardinary People series is the perfect starter for students who want to know more about the people who shaped their world, focusing on the unique histories of people from every culture, and every walk of life.
Although graced with picturesque beaches, lush rain forests, and abundant diamond mines, the tiny West African nation of Sierra Leone is a land haunted by tragedy. It is the region from which the first slaves in North America were brought during the 1600s. A century later, thousands of freed slaves would establish a settlement called Freetown, which later became part of the British colony of Sierra Leone. Despite its diamond resources, Sierra Leone remained a poverty-stricken nation after achieving independence in 1961. During the 1990s, its people were devastated by horrific atrocities that occurred during a brutal civil war. Since peace came to the troubled nation in 2002, Sierra Leone has begun the slow process of rebuilding. However, much work must still be done before Sierra Leone can become a stable and prosperous nation.