1. At the beginning of the novel, Lou dreads going home after school. Why does she take the long way home? Is she envious of the boys' freedom to gather on the sidewalks and in the alleys?

2. White police officers "constantly arrested Southside fellows whether they had done anything wrong or not." How does this abuse of authority affect the police officers' image in the Southside community?

3. Most parents encourage their children's efforts to achieve career goals.

Why does Mrs. Hawkins oppose her son's plan to open his own print shop?

4. Blind Eddie Bell introduces Lou and her friends to the blues. Does Blind Eddie suggest a link between black gospel and the blues?

5. Lou sets Fess's poem, "Hungry Cat Blues," to music. What is the poem about?

6. Explain why Lou feels like an "outsider" after the policeman shoots Jethro.

Is she disillusioned?

7. In what...