Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School

Much of the novel’s action takes place at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School in Boston, Massachusetts. It is a predominantly black public school. David is one of the few white students there. David is often teased and bullied. David’s experiences at the school serve as a lens for the examination of racial tension as an ingrained part of American culture.

David’s Home

David’s home is located in Jamaica Plain, a neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. David lives with his mother, his father, and his younger brother Benno. David’s household life is generally stable but still marked by frustration. David is frustrated that his parents are so strict with him and yet so lenient with Benno. David’s growing religious leanings also irks his father.

Boston

Nearly the entire novel takes place in the city of Boston. Boston...