Amy Zerba

For many of you, her characters, settings and words have had a lasting impact. Image Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye,” “Sula” and “Beloved” were often required readings in school. The New York Times asked readers to reflect on Ms. Morrison’s work and relate which of her stories or passages had an affect on their lives, and how. For some, it was her characters, like Pecola Breedlove in “The Bluest Eye,” who struggled with identity.

Her powerful language, memorable characters, moving dialogue and vivid descriptions had a way of resonating with readers. Share your memories with us. Image Toni Morrison was the author of 11 novels as well as children’s books and essay collections. What was your favorite? Toni Morrison’s novels explored the black experience in America, particularly for black women. Slavery, racism, class, violence, family, friendships and love were among the themes that figured in her books.

It is one of the worst scandals to rock the New York Police Department in years: A retired police detective was arrested and accused of running a prostitution and gambling ring that brought in millions of dollars across the city. It was a business in which the ring leader relied on a group of police officers to protect the enterprise and foil any planned raids, according to the police.