The Kind Act of Uncle John

Uncle John's actions in the passage from "The Most Useful Slave" by Virginia Hamilton showed a level of kindness and generosity that was likely rare in the context of slavery. Enslaved people were often treated as property and denied basic human rights, so any act of kindness or compassion from someone like Uncle John would have been greatly appreciated.

By choosing to release the raccoon instead of keeping it captive, Uncle John demonstrated a sense of empathy towards the animals and possibly even towards his fellow enslaved individuals. This act of defiance against the norms of slavery could have been seen as a form of resistance and a symbol of hope for the future.

Additionally, the fact that Mas Tom, the owner, was a "whole bunch richer" after Uncle John's actions implies that Uncle John may have been risking his own well-being or livelihood by releasing the raccoon. Enslaved individuals who witnessed this act may have viewed Uncle John as a hero for standing up against the oppressive system and making a small but impactful gesture of kindness.