Key Events & Plot
Where does the incident involving Rashad and the police take place?
Jerry's
What major social issue is at the center of the novel?
racism / police brutality
What happens to Quinn’s friendship with Guzzo after Quinn supports the protest?
Guzzo beats him up and ends their friendship
Who is the main character who is beaten by a police officer at Jerry’s Corner Mart?
Rashad
What message is written in graffiti at Rashad’s school and around the city?
Rashad Is Absent Again Today
What does the phrase “Absent Again Today” symbolize?
Victims of injustice being ignored or silenced
What choice does Quinn make after witnessing Rashad’s beating?
He chooses to support Rashad and joins the protest.
Who is Rashad’s older brother who pushes for action and justice?
Spoony
Why is Rashad in the hospital for much of the novel? (1 Specific injury)
bruised lung, internal bleeding, or broken rib(s)
Why is silence shown as a problem in the novel?
Because staying silent allows injustice to continue
Why does Rashad decide to attend the protest even though he is scared?
He realizes the situation is bigger than just what happened to him.
Name Rashad's friends, and the nurse who takes care of him
Shannon, Carlos, English, and Clarissa
What major event do students and community members organize in response to Rashad’s beating, and what form of protest do they do while at the march?
A protest march, a die-in
How does the novel redefine what it means to be “All-American”?
Standing up for justice and equality, even when it’s difficult
How does Rashad’s father change by the end of the novel?
He supports Rashad and shows up to the protest.
Who is the lady that works at the hospital gift shop?
Mrs. Fitzgerald
What happens during the die-in at the Police Plaza?
Protesters lie on the ground while names of unarmed Black people killed by police are read aloud
What is the novel’s message about fear and courage?
Courage means acting despite fear, not avoiding it
What consequence do both Quinn and Rashad face for standing up, and why is it important?
They face fear, conflict, and risk, but their actions help create awareness and change.
What is Rashad's father's name?