Spaldeens

Spaldeens are sports balls and represent the innocence of childhood. Spaldeens are used in games ranging from stickball to wall ball to porch ball that are played among the kids of Dean Street. Dylan and Mingus are frequent users of spaldeens, which in turn represent a simple, happy childhood game that has not been affected by other pressures in life.

Comic books

Comic books symbolize the commonality between Dylan and Mingus. While Dylan and Mingus are white and black, respectively, and although they have different backgrounds, they bond over a mutual love of comic books. These comic books are kept with them through their teenage years and their condition at that time reflects the different priorities and stages of their lives. Dylan keeps his comics in perfect condition, reflecting his love of childhood and nostalgia for it. Arthur keeps his in fair shape and sells them...