chapters 1-5
Where is Starr at the start of the book?
At a party in Garden Heights
What gang was Maverick in?
The King Lords.
What kind of neighborhood is Garden Heights?
It’s a poor, mostly Black neighborhood affected by violence and drug activity.
What type of school is Williamson Prep?
It’s a mostly white, upper-class private school.
What is the theme of the book
Who is Khalil, and what happens to him?
He’s Starr’s childhood friend, and he gets shot by a police officer.
Why did Maverick go to prison?
He took the fall for King to protect his family.
Who controls much of the crime in Garden Heights?
A local drug lord named King.
How does Starr act at Williamson Prep?
She hides parts of her true self to fit in and avoid being judged.
What is the main theme of chapters 1-5
Having a voice and knowing when to use it
Why does Starr feel like she has two versions of herself?
She acts differently at her mostly white school than at home in her Black neighborhood.
What business does Maverick run?
He owns and works at a grocery store in Garden Heights.
Why do Starr’s parents send her to a school outside of Garden Heights?
They want her to have better opportunities and a safer environment.
Why do Starr’s parents choose Williamson Prep for her?
They want her to get a better education and stay away from the violence in Garden Heights.
What was one theme shown by Khalil being killed by a cop
The difference between the truth and perception
What does the officer do after stopping Khalil’s car?
Shoots and kills him
What lesson does Maverick teach Starr about speaking up?
He tells her it’s important to use her voice and stand up for what’s right.
How does Starr feel about living in Garden Heights?
She has mixed feelings—she loves her community but feels unsafe and conflicted.
Who are some of Starr’s friends at Williamson Prep?
Hailey and Maya
What is the theme of chapter 20
The theme is finding your voice and using it to seek justice
How does Starr react after Khalil is killed?
How does Starr react after Khalil is killed?
How does Maverick feel about moving out of Garden Heights?
He struggles with the idea but wants what’s best and safest for his family.
What role does Garden Heights play in the story?
It highlights the struggles of systemic racism, poverty, and community strength.
How does Williamson Prep contrast with Garden Heights?
It’s safer, wealthier, and less diverse than Garden Heights.
What is the theme of the cop killing khalil
Power and authority vs truth