Young’s “African American Literature: A Brief Introduction and Anthology,” is a collaboration of literary works by African American writers who have been recognized in the literary world in the highest regard. The authors in this collaborated work of literature write in themes and literary conventions that display African Americans within American society, African American culture, slavery, racism, and social equality. “White Folks Treated Us Good,” by Marriah Hines tells a story which notes the African American slavery experience in a way that seems to give a lighter perspective of American slavery than usual. Hines glorifies her days on the plantation with her master as good living. She writes, "I lived with good people, my white folks treated us good. There was plenty of 'em that didn't fare as we did. Some of the poor folks almost starved to death. Why the way their masters treated them was scandalous, treated them like cats and dogs. We always had plenty of food, never known what it was to want food bad enough to have to steal it like a whole lot of 'em" (pg.34). Hines writings note that even though slavery was harsh and cruel for many, she and others on James Pressman’s plantation did not have to endure many of its severities. Hines also notes how she, her family, and other former slaves were willing to stay on Mr. Pressman’s plantation even after the Civil War because the environment was so pleasurable. Hines’s story is truly the exception of slavery in American history. "To My Old Master" by Jourdon Anderson is a very good example of how authors can use the literary conventions of a letter to tell a story. Jourdon exquisitely uses a letter format of storytelling in order him heal from his past, relieves resentment, and liberates himself. Jourdon is writing his letter in response to a letter he received from an old master. The master wrote Anderson, wanting him and his family to come work for them again. Although Jou