The first book by Anna J. Cooper A Voice From the South presents strong ideals supporting racial and gender equality as well as economic progress. Its a forwardthinking narrative that highlights many disparities hindering the African American community. Anna J. Cooper was an accomplished educator who used her influence to encourage and elevate African Americans. With A Voice From the South she delivers a poignant analysis of the countrys affairs as they relate to Black people specifically Black women. She stresses the importance of education which she sees as a great equalizer. Cooper considers it a necessary investment in not only the individual but the community. She also criticizes the depictions of African Americans in literature by some of the days most popular authors. She calls for more realistic portrayals that are both honest yet positive. Cooper provides an unflinching critique of mainstream America as it relates to the Black population. A Voice From the South broaches pivotal topics such as womens rights segregation and the need for higher education. With an eyecatching new cover and professionally typeset manuscript this edition of A Voice From the South is both modern and readable.