RAB Source Entry 2 – Davina

RQ: How does a single-parent household affect child development? What are the pros and cons of a single-parent household?

Part 1: MLA Citation

Hrabowski, F. A. (2002). “Overcoming the odds: raising academically successful African American young women” (1st ed.). Oxford University Press. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/citytech-ebooks/reader.action?docID=272434&ppg=59

Part 2: Summary

                 Chapter two of the book, “Overcoming The Odds: Raising Academically successful African American Young Woman” by Freeman A. Hrabowski, discusses the mothers interviewed and their deep concern about the challenges their African American daughters may face, despite their academic abilities. They believe that despite their daughters’ academic talents, they will still face significant challenges due to their race and gender. These mothers often have to advocate for their daughters’ education, ensuring they receive the opportunities and support they deserve. They worry that their daughters may encounter racism and discrimination, both in school and in society. These mothers work tirelessly to empower their daughters, teaching them to be resilient and to persevere in the face of adversity. “One mother stated, I feel she succeeded so well because we have been there behind her, never letting up, telling her what she can do and how important education is.” By sharing their own experiences, they provide guidance and support to their daughters, helping them navigate the challenges they may face. These mothers emphasize the importance of education and encourage their daughters to strive for excellence. They teach their daughters about the history of racial injustice and the importance of racial pride. They prepare their daughters for the potential challenges they may encounter in their personal and professional lives. Ultimately, these mothers hope to raise strong, independent, and successful Black women who can make a positive impact on the world.

Part 3: Rhetorical Analysis

                The genre of the book, “Overcoming The Odds: Raising Academically successful African American Young Woman” by Freeman A. Hrabowski is African American literature. The primary source is African American parents so they can learn strategies to raise their daughters. The author’s writing style, tone, and attitude are informative and objective. The author uses the rhetorical appeal of ethos by interviewing over 40 African American mothers of various backgrounds. Hrabowski has co-authored 5 books and was the president of University of Maryland, Baltimore County from the year 1992 to the year 2022. The currency of this article is not current since it was published in 2002. It is relevant because it showcases a lot of information that can be used to help African American mothers understand themselves and how to better raise their daughters. The information in the book can still be used today.

Part 4: Notable Quotes

“I always encourage them to draw a picture in their mind of who they want to be and what they can be and remember that picture and go after that goal. They may fall but they should always go back to that dream.” (Freeman pg 78)

“Each generation builds on the previous one, has a responsibility to that generation, and weaves a “story” for the generation that follows.” (Freeman pg 80)

“They said, like the other mother quoted at the beginning of this section, that the family was at the root of the daughters’ success. These mothers credit family involvement, working together, and modeling the importance of education and accomplishments. To them, setting high expectations was critical.” (Freeman pg 82-83)