Chapter 2 - Book of Negroes

Proof: “I loved to hear the story about how they had never been meant to set eyes on each other, Mama being a Bamana and Papa being a Fula.” (p.10).

Explanation: This is significant because it provides backstory on the parents and how each became respected; it also explains how and why Mamuda chose Sira, which led to Aminata’s birth.

Proof: “As soon as I could walk, I made myself useful. I collected shea nuts, and scrambled up trees to fetch mangoes and avocadoes, oranges and other fruits. I was made to hold other women’s babies, and to keep them content.” (p.13).

Explanation: Though it was common for children her age in the village to help out, her experience from that of a youth for not only harvesting but a special skill in midwifery also. This could be beneficial in the future of the storyline and builds Aminata’s character as independent and having prowess with many trades.

Proof: “Mama took me along when women were at their biggest, ballooning from within.” (p.14)
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Explanation: Earlier in the book, it mentioned how Mama was respected in the village and a resource for women there. Learning this skill at a young age of seven could be useful for Aminata and her future.

Proof: “I’ll beat you all I want. And [Mamuda]’ll beat you again when he hears that you were in my home.” (p.19).

Explanation: Along with other clues as to Fanta’s treatment of Fomba and how Aminata does not respect her, animosity can be sensed stronger with this scene. This simply adds to the plot, and can be a static/variable situation.

Proof: “One day, he crouched low to the ground and called for me. Up I climbed onto his back, all the way to his shoulders.” (p.19).

Explanation: When Papa spoke to Aminata, he mentioned directions and a thought of visiting a village four sun’s north. This could be foreshadowing her near future travel to Kinta or a future that she will miss.

Proof: “One day, Mama and I were called from our millet pounding to attend a birth in Kinta, four villages away in the direction of the setting sun.” (p.22).

Explanation: If Aminata and her Mama were not called to the birth in Kinta, they would not have faced their fate with captors upon return. If they had stayed, or even delayed their return, there was ample opportunity to keep their freedom.

Proof: “From behind a grove of trees stepped four men with massive arms and powerful legs.” (p.23).

Explanation: After confronting these unknown people by chance, the lives of Aminata and other villagers are impacted greatly. Due to this encounter, Ba and Fa are badly injured and Aminata is in a situation of captivity.