1. The novel mentions several black leaders from the past: Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X, W. E. B. Du Bois, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Who are some other well-known leaders from the black community? Select one for a short research paper.

2. In his second narrative, Jimmy-Lee seems envious of the attention, especially extra favors, given to people who have been in drug detoxification or some other form of detention. He feels he should be rewarded for not being on drugs and for doing well in school.

Should he, or is doing well its own A Hero Aln't Nothin' but a Sandwich reward? Do those who have reformed, or are trying to do so, get extra privileges?

Is this just?

3. Mr. Cohen tells Benjie, "You can be somebody if you want to," and Benjie complains, "How does he know I'm not somebody...