Brownies: history, preparation, and cultural significance
Literature: "Brownies" by Z. Z. Packer
"Brownies" is a short story focusing on point of view. Racial points of view of members of the black girls' Brownie Troop are important because Packer shows how differing points of view cause individuals to interpret situations differently: those predisposed to be racially paranoid see racism in many situations, for example. Points of view within a group are also important, as we can see the different girls lead, intimidate, follow, join a cause and stand up for themselves, depending on their points of view. Consequently, a short story that could be superficially read as merely recounting a youthful incident gives several layers of deeper meaning based on points of view.