Author was born in Chicago, Il. in December of 1930. She grew up in downstate farm country. Her parents were sharecroppers, very poor. They had eight children of their own and helped with their nie...view moreAuthor was born in Chicago, Il. in December of 1930. She grew up in downstate farm country. Her parents were sharecroppers, very poor. They had eight children of their own and helped with their nieces and nephews, and both of their mothers lived with them.view less