Romiette and Julio

With Malaka in mind, argue why a high school student might want to join a gang. Research the psychology of gang membership to support your response.

Read William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. In what ways does Romiette and Julio prove that the play is still relevant? Does the novel’s ending take away from the play’s themes?

Although the character of Nannette Norris is clearly intended for comic relief, the novel also uses her to criticize reporting. With the news-related chapters in mind, evaluate the novel’s use of satire. Is it successful in its criticism?

The novel uses a variety of narrative forms—journal entries, online chats, and excerpts from the local news. What does the novel gain (or lose) by using these different forms?

Research the psychology behind soul mates. How does Destiny’s Scientific Soul Mate System kit tie into this psychology? How does the fact that both Destiny and Romi find their soul mates impact the novel’s realism?

Analyze Romi’s recurring nightmare. How does it help the reader understand Romi’s character? Does it add a layer of significance to her and Julio’s love?

Consider Romi’s journal entries and Julio’s Romi-related conversations. How does the novel frame love at first sight? From both an analytical and personal perspective, do you find Romi and Julio’s relationship convincing? Why or why not?

As Romi’s and Julio’s fathers search for their missing children, they come to an important realization. What is the significance of Chapter 58?