THE CASTLE
Unlike the fairy tale castles that Ana and Andrew read about in storybooks, Cape Coast Castle was made of cold, white stone. And knowing that slaves were once held captive behind its walls was very sad.
“It is important that we be respectful on our tour today,” Papa instructed.
“We will,” Ana an Andrew whispered.
As they walked through the dimly lit castle, Mama and Papa held Ana and Andrew’s hands. Some of the visitors who were touring the slave castle cried and wiped their eyes with tissues.
“There is ‘The Door of No Return,” Mama whispered, pointing at a doorway.
“Why is it called that?” Ana asked.
“Because once enslaved Africans went through that door, they would never return home,” Mama said sadly.
“But you, their descendants, have returned!” Mr. Akwasi smiled. “And for this, we must celebrate!”
Comprehension Questions
1. What does descendants mean?
A. ancestors
B. someone related to another person born before them
C. fallen people
A. The door didn't lead anywhere.
B. Ana and Andrew could not reenter the tour once they exited through that door.
C. Once slaves went through that door, they never came back.
Your Thoughts
Vocabulary
4. List any vocabulary words below.