Who Said It
“You’re not going anywhere until you learn respect.”
Joy (author Wes') mom
What happens when the police stop the other Wes in Chapter 4?
he is arrested
Who tries to warn the other Wes about dealing drugs?
Tony, his older brother.
Where does the author Wes live after his father’s death?
The Bronx, New York.
What theme connects both Wes Moores’ stories?
The impact of choices and environment.
“I’m not scared. I’ve been through worse.”
the other Wes
Why does Joy decide to send Wes to military school?
His behavior and grades are getting worse.
How does Joy Moore try to change her son’s path?
She sends him to military school.
Where does the other Wes live during these chapters?
Baltimore, Maryland.
What is one way the two Wes Moores’ lives start to separate?
One finds structure at military school; the other falls deeper into street life.
“You can’t serve two masters.”
tony (other Wes') brother
What happens to Mary’s (the other Wes’s mom’s) Pell Grant?
It’s taken away, and she can’t afford college.
What does Mary want for her family before losing her grant?
A better life through her college education.
What school does the author Wes attend before military school?
Riverdale Country School.
What does military school symbolize for the author Wes?
Discipline, second chances, and personal growth.
“The expectations that others place on us help us form our expectations of ourselves.”
author wes
How does the author Wes feel when he first arrives at military school?
Angry, confused, and scared.
How does the author Wes’s mother react when he disrespects her?
She slaps him and makes it clear she expects more.
What kind of environment does the other Wes grow up in?
A poor neighborhood with drugs and violence
How does environment (nurture) shape both Wes Moores?
Their surroundings influence their opportunities and choices.
“You can’t keep running from yourself. At some point, you have to face who you are.”
Sergeant Austin (at military school, speaking to the author Wes)
What does the other Wes start doing to earn money?
Selling drugs.
What role do both mothers play in shaping their sons’ lives?
They both try to protect and guide them, but circumstances and choices affect the outcomes differently.
What major setting change happens at the end of Chapter 4?
The author Wes is sent away to military school.
What does this section of the book suggest about second chances?
Change is possible, but only if someone chooses to accept help and discipline.