Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of bullying, physical abuse, and racism.

Medina’s novel is narrated from the first-person perspective of Piddy. How would the story change if told from another perspective, or even multiple perspectives? What would be gained by this shift? What would be lost?

Piddy’s father is not physically present in the narrative, but his absence impacts her significantly. Citing examples from the text, analyze how Piddy’s father functions as a ghost-like figure. How does he influence the actions, feelings, and relationships of both Piddy and her mother, Clara, despite his lack of involvement in their lives? What narrative devices does Medina use to characterize Piddy’s father, despite him never appearing in scene?

An author can use the setting for symbolic reasons. Consider when and how Piddy navigates the New York City subway system. Using textual evidence, what does this aspect of the setting represent? Why?