How It Went Down

Weapons are a central part of the narrative, with the main question surrounding whether or not Tariq had a gun. How do weapons play into the narrative? Who uses them? What do they symbolize for each user/owner?

Jennica goes through a major arc in the narrative. Describe her character and how she’s first introduced, and contrast this with her character by the end of the narrative. What’s the reason for her change?

Tom Arlen shelters Jack Franklin and initially views him as a hero. Describe Tom’s character, as well as his views on Underhill and the Tariq Johnson situation. How is Tom symbolic of white America as portrayed in the novel?

Reverend Sloan is somewhat of a controversial character in the narrative. Describe his character and the choices/views of his that make him controversial. What is his stance on the Tariq Johnson incident? How is he involved?

The Kings are a gang that is active in Underhill. List and describe the members mentioned in the narrative, as well as the outliers that the Kings wanted as members. What role do the Kings play in the larger narrative?

Compare the home lives of Tyrell, Will, and Tariq. How did each character deal with their parents and the stresses of street life? How did their home life shift by novel’s end?

The media plays a large, mostly negative role in the narrative. Explain the media’s presence in the narrative. How does the media portray Tariq Johnson and Underhill? How does the media treat Tariq’s family and those who knew him?

Compare Junior’s character and story to Tyrell’s. Why are these two plotlines so important, and why do they eventually merge in the narrative?