* Lack of Formal Education: Isabel was never formally educated. She was born into slavery and never had the opportunity to learn to read or write. Her knowledge is mostly gleaned from observation and experience, which is limited by her social position.
* Fear of Discovery: Even though she is a "free" woman, Isabel still lives in a society where enslaved people are constantly under threat. Reading could easily expose her as literate, and that could lead to her being returned to slavery or worse. This fear keeps her from engaging with books and exploring the world of reading.
* Cognitive Dissonance: Isabel is grappling with the complexities of freedom and slavery. She has a strong sense of right and wrong, but she also needs to survive in a system that is inherently unjust. This creates a conflict within her, making her struggle to understand and navigate the world around her.
* Limited Resources: Isabel doesn't have the resources to learn to read. She's working constantly to survive, and finding someone to teach her or obtaining books is a significant challenge.
* Trauma: The book explores the lasting trauma Isabel faces due to her experiences in slavery. The fear, uncertainty, and lack of control she endured can affect her cognitive abilities and make learning more difficult.
Overall, Isabel's struggles with reading and "common sense" are a direct result of the oppressive system of slavery. They highlight the impact of social injustice on individuals and the power of education and opportunity to break free from the limitations imposed by societal structures.