Characters
Who is the narrator of the novel?
Starr Carter
What neighborhood does Starr live in?
Garden Heights
What major event happens at the beginning?
Khalil is shot by a police officer
What is Starr’s main internal conflict?
Speaking out vs. staying silent
What theme is suggested by the title?
• Cycle of hate
• Violence leads to violence
Who is Starr’s childhood friend who is killed by a police officer?
Khalil Harris
What school does Starr attend, and why does she feel out of place?
• Williamson Prep
• Mostly white, wealthy students
• She code-switches
Why does Starr initially stay silent?
• Fear of attention
• Fear of retaliation
• Protecting herself & family
One conflict between Starr and Williamson friends?
• Friends minimize racism
• Insensitive comments
How is identity explored?
• Code-switching
• Dual lives
• Finding authentic self
Who are Starr’s parents, and how do their views on activism differ?
• Maverick Carter (outspoken, active)
• Lisa Carter (protective, cautious)
How does Garden Heights influence Starr’s identity?
• Strong community ties
• Exposure to violence & racism
• Shapes her values
What role does the grand jury play?
• Decides officer’s fate
• Chooses not to indict
How do Starr’s parents create conflict?
• Maverick pushes activism
• Lisa worries about safety
How is racism shown on different levels?
• Personal prejudice
• Systemic injustice
How does Chris’s reaction to Khalil’s death reveal his privilege?
• Initially doesn’t understand racism
• Defends police assumptions
• Doesn’t experience systemic injustice
Why is the contrast between Garden Heights and Williamson important?
• Highlights racial inequality
• Shows dual identity
• Reveals privilege differences
How does media portrayal of Khalil affect the community?
• Paints him as criminal
• Shifts blame
• Increases anger & protests
Explain the conflict between Garden Heights and police.
• Distrust of police
• History of violence
• Lack of accountability
How does silence vs. speaking out function as a theme?
• Silence enables injustice
• Voice leads to change
How does Starr’s identity change from beginning to end?
• Starts silencing herself
• Learns to speak up
• Embraces her full identity
How does setting shape conflicts and themes?
• Police vs. community tension
• Identity struggle
• Systemic racism
How does the ending show Starr’s growth?
• She speaks out
• Stands with community
• Commits to activism
How are internal and external conflicts connected?
• Inner fear mirrors social pressure
• Personal choices affect community
How does Starr’s journey comment on social justice?
• Youth activism matters
• Speaking truth is powerful
• Change starts locally