<P> The book The Slave Community, written by American historian John W. Blassingame and referenced in the film, was one of the first historical studies of slavery in the United States . The book contradicted others who suggested that African American slaves were in large - part submissive . Blassingame used psychology to determine the mentality developed by slaves during the era and possibly passed on to generations after . </P> <P> Davenport suggests that Antwone read the book to understand why Mrs. Tate abused him . Davenport does not intend to justify her actions, but he seeks to help Antwone understand where her mentality of beatings and verbal abuse to keep the foster children subservient came from . Antwone is seen briefly reading the book in the next scene . </P> <P> "When I saw the film for the first time, I was overwhelmed by a mixture of feelings: fear, joy, pride and satisfaction - all of which still linger, and I am certain they will for the rest of my life . I hope others, too, walk away with those same feelings and the courage to do something to better the lives of children in general . I hope that after seeing the movie and reading my memoir that people will see that every child has value and boundless potential and that even if all one has to give is an encouraging word as a genuine gesture of care...that gift alone can save a child's life and give hope for the future ." </P> <Dl> <Dd> - Antwone Fisher </Dd> </Dl>

Who going to cry for the little boy