Sometimes it is hard to distinguish between a book that changed
your opinion, a book that taught you something new, and a book
that flat-out amazed you with its uniqueness. You must forgive
me if I allow these definitions to blend. Regardless of your
thoughts, if any, on women authors and racial prejudices in
early nineteenth century France, you will be surprised by Claire
de Duras’ Ourika. It was published by a woman, de Duras, in
1828, and tells the story of an African girl who is rescued from
slavery by an aristocratic French family and raised as part of
their family. She grows up unaware of any difference between her
and the white society around her; her education is the best
money can buy, her clothes and manners are aristocratic, and she
is even given a débutante ball to introduce her to society. It
is at this point that her problems begin, for only now do other
people begin to remark on her exotic looks and consider her
something apart. The revelation is devastating to her self-
esteem and future plans.