Morrison's writing of the book began because she was "interested in talking about black girlhood."[7] Dr. Jan Furman, professor of English at the University of Michigan, notes that the book allows the reader to analyze the "imprinting"[7] factors that shape the identity of the self during the process of maturing in young black girls. She references parts in the book where the main characters are taught to feel less than human, specifically when the shopkeeper avoids touching Pecola's hand when giving her candy.