Maria Firmina dos Reis biography to be launched in São Luís

A new book titled ‘Maria Firmina, a mestra da liberdade’ will be launched in São Luís, Maranhão. Written by journalist Andréa Oliveira and published by L&PM Editores, the work explores the life of Maria Firmina dos Reis, a pioneering Black Brazilian writer.

Dos Reis is noted for authoring ‘Úrsula’, considered the first abolitionist novel in Brazil and the first work of fiction published by a Black person in the country. The biography highlights her journey as a self-taught educator who overcame racism and sexism to become a teacher and founder of a co-educational school.

The book includes historical documents, such as facsimiles of the first edition of ‘Úrsula’, and features illustrations by artist Mitti Mendonça.