The power of encouragement.
Explanation:
* By Anita Diamant, "The Boston Girl" is narrated in first-person a girl, Addie.
* Addie feels empowered after Miss Chevalier encourages her by emphasizing her qualities.
* Miss Chevalier takes care of a settlement house in a poor neighborhood, helping families of immigrants.
* She notices that Addie is a good reader and asks her to memorize a poem for a recital.
* She also teaches Addie the importance of knowing the meaning of words and knowing what words apply to oneself.
* For instance, she teaches Addie that she is a girl with "gumption".
*Addie feels seen, strong, and capable
because of Miss Chevalier.
