Before meeting Mrs. Flowers, Marguerite has refused to speak, and refused any help. Why is Mrs. Flowers able to help her, when others could not? What evidence in the text supports your answer?

The "aristocrat" of black Stamps, Mrs. Flowers is a gracious woman who encourages Maya's love of literature, and also helps Maya to break out of her muteness. Maya regards her as the pinnacle of humankind. Mrs. Flowers refuses to let Maya feel sorry for herself. She treats Maya with respects but also teaches her discipline and how to be more self-aware.