A Lesson Before Dying Lesson Plan

What is the significance of the radio for both Jefferson and Grant? Why are Tante Lou and the Reverend so angry about it?

The conversation when Grant offers to bring Jefferson a radio is the best he's ever had with Jefferson yet. It is the first time Jefferson doesn't look at Grant with hate and the first time Grant has found a way to reach him. This is a huge step forward for him. As for Jefferson, that radio keeps him company when he is locked away in his cell. It is a connection to the outside world that he didn't have before.

The Reverend is angry about the radio for various reasons: 1) Jefferson refuses to leave his cell and meet everyone in the dayroom because...