I picked up this book in the year 2000, and as Anne Moody "wonders", I too wonder how much things have changed in 35 years. Sure, many APPEARANCES have changed, but have you ever searched the internet to see how many Klan sites there are? The topic of racism and hatred that comes with it is still scary and real; not only for black people, but everyone who is considered "different" than others around them. Anne's story is painful, real, honest, timely, and -most of all- it is a reminder to people to always be aware of attitudes and influences that we convey. I found myself thinking about the writing style afterwards. The language changes as Anne Moody's character matures and becomes more educated. This was a subtle effect that very effectively to drew the reader in closer. This should be required reading material.