While reading this alphabet, I definitely knew that children were the intended audience for this. The author used the alphabet as a method of connecting to the intended audience. Since language is one of the first things they learn, it makes sense to use it. The author uses poetry for each letter’s description, as well. I believe this is a good idea because it has such a lyrical feel to it. Personally, I had a bit of difficulty getting the rhythm of the poem down, but that’s besides the point. Another peculiar thing I found is that the author didn’t really sugarcoat the situation of the slaves. He used poetry and the alphabet to draw in the children, while also educating them about the ideas of anti-slavery.

When I went back towards the beginning, I noticed that I missed something. “In the morning, sow thy seed.” I think that’s when it finally clicked for me. This poetic alphabet wasn’t just about educating children about the unfair treatment of the slaves. It was also a way for the anti-slavery movement to gain power. Children are impressionable at their young age. If they can be convinced to accept a certain idea, they will grow up believing in it. Those people leading the anti-slavery movement discovered this and used Children’s Literature as a way of “sowing the seeds.” So when the children grew into adults, they would be more than likely to support the fair treatment of slaves.