Describe LaVaughn's relationship with the neighborhood she grew up in. What does she love about her home? What does she hate? In Chapter five she says "I am lucky to have a room of my own, instead of sleeping on a fold-out like Annie in her house" (p. 15). Why do you think LaVaughn chooses to show gratitude instead of being bitter? What does this tell you about her character? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Compare and contrast the upbringing LaVaughn has with the upbringing Myrtle has. What is the same about their lives? What is different? How is it that two girls from the same neighborhood, who attend the same school, have very different futures? What does this tell you about life in the slums? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen...