As I began to read the book "Picking Cotton"," it surprised me by its storytelling and subjects. I had never read or heard about this book before, but now since I've finish reading, I can say that it is a story about retelling of love, justice, hate, revenge and the power of forgiveness. In the book, the lives of two very different people, Jennifer Thompson and Ronald Cotton are thrown into confusion, leading to the prosecution of Ronald Cotton for the rape of Jennifer Thompson. This story is about the two authors coming from different cultures overcoming injustices. It also tells the story of both people from their own. In the following paragraphs, I would like to state my own opinions and personal responses about the book. .
I really enjoyed the story as it is told through a distinct pattern first person narration. I felt that I better connected with them in on their emotional dispute. Most readers like me have no experience in this trauma, so reading tone is crucial in understanding the moment. Without this particular writing style, it would be impossible to feel anything for the Ronald and Jennifer. These obstacles that Jennifer and Ronald overcame changed their lives and were greatly aided by the tone of the book.
The immediate questions and concerns about the issues in the story was the air of familiarity of preconception and racial discrimination present. I think there is a connection among the time frame and place, this story takes place in. Another thing that really struck me is the guilt in Jennifer and the power of forgiveness in Ronald. In the personal feelings of Jennifer and in her letters and dialogue, I felt there was a real sense of understanding how confused and wrong someone can become under circumstances. It would have really frustrated me if Jennifer realized she was wrong and made no attempts to amend for her prosecution. It is true that she felt she robbed a man of a part of his life, a part she got to live out and experience and Ronald did not.
