The Facts 1. What, according to the author, makes it difficult for black men to develop the
kind of image that their children can admire and imitate? Is this circumstance
limited to black communities? Explain your answer.
2. What were the historical circumstances into which the author's father was born
in Louisiana on September 7, 1928?
3. What forces came to the rescue whenever the West family was in trouble? Give
some specific examples.
4. What role does the Bible play in the West family's moral code? Be specific in
your answer.
5. Why was the author's mother not abused by her husband as were so many
other black women of the time?