"I seen many youngsters change their minds, forgetting their life plan or they pretend they never had one. You need a long memory, LaVaughn. You can't go forgetting the minute it gets too hard" (p. 9).

"And I looked in the eyes of them and wishes I could have everybody together all liking each other like the picture in my mind of how we would all be" (p. 51).

"Oh, Oh, Oh. I'll be all right, all right. He is holding me, kicking for both of us, saving my life the whole length of the pool, and I'll be all right" (p. 77).

"This Lester has some special stomach to need all these special plates and holiday glasses. Is it because he has a good job? Is it because my mom is lonely? I'm lonely, and I eat on the regular plates every single time" (p. 106).

"What could I say to...