Words are Empowering

In the text there were three different individuals who were influenced by reading and writing. For example Tanya Barrientos a Latino, was greatly influenced by the reading, writing, and speaking the English language though it eventually lead her to set aside her native language. Frederick Douglass was also greatly influenced by reading books or anything he could find to read. In the text it says he found a purpose in all of his reading. Malcolm X was also influenced by reading in prison. Malcolm X found interest in anything he thought would make a brighter future for his people. In Amy Tan's narrative she talks about how her mother's use of English inspired her to become better writer and speaker.
All of their stories are different but they have one essential theme. All of the authors were influenced to write by others. No matter what the circumstance was they found a way to better themselves by reading or writing.