A Trailblazing Poet Who Defied Adversity
My name is Mary, and I'm ten. My teacher, Ms. Jones, taught us last week about a very unique girl named Phillis who lived a long time ago. She stated that Phillis's life began in an unjust manner, but she rose above it. Phillis was separated from her family in Africa when she was a child, possibly even younger than myself! Can you imagine being taken away from your mother and put on a terrifying boat, with no idea where you're going or if you'll ever see your mother again? That is what happened to Phillis. She was sold as a slave after being brought to America.
Even though she was enslaved, the Wheatley family could tell Phillis was exceptionally intelligent. They taught her how to read and write, which was unusual for a girl back then, especially a Black enslaved girl. But Phillis loved learning and was a really fast learner. Soon she was reading the Bible and all sorts of books!
That's when Phillis discovered she had a gift for writing poetry. Her poems were so beautiful, talking about God and life and important issues. She became the first African American to have a book published! Can you believe that? A formerly enslaved girl wrote an entire book of poems. It must have blown everyone away.https://rb.gy/j13wgs
Phillis used her words to push for change and get people thinking in a new way, even though things were unfair for her. She was so brave and inspiring. Her story proves that anyone can do amazing things if they work hard and follow their dreams, no matter what others say is "possible." I want to be just like Phillis when I grow up! ✨https://idm.in/Cruv3qI
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