How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
School ain't nothin' but a joke. My moms don't want to hear that, but if it weren't for Wesley and my other homeys, I wouldn't even be here, aiight? (3.1)
See? Friends are important. They're helping Tyrone stay in school. At least that's what he wants us to believe at this point in the story, anyway.
Quote #2
I come to school sporting shades and a johnny-print across my left cheek, Johnny being the name of the idiot who smacked me last night. Naturally, Porscha is the first person who notices my new tattoo. She walks straight up to me and says, "You deserve better, girlfriend. And you know it." No hello. No how are you. Just: "You deserve better." Then she turns away and walks into the classroom. Typical Porscha. No nonsense. That's why we get along. (5.2)
Chankara can appreciate a friend who tells it like it is, and she knows Porscha's right—she definitely deserves better. Nothing like a little support from a friend during a tough time, right?
Quote #3
Then here comes Sheila Gamberoni. The minute she sees me, she demands to know the name of the guy who gave me my shiner, like she's gonna send her brothers after him or something. I keep his name to myself, just in case. She commences to call the guy everything but a child of God, which makes her feel better, I think, then gives me a hug and says she'll see me later. Sheila is a bit over the top with this sister act, as if she's trying to make up for being white, but she means well. (5.3)
And now here's someone Chankara would never be friends with—well, not real friends at least. She feels like Sheila is trying too hard and it reads as disingenuous. Still, she's reaching out in friendship and Chankara does appreciate the effort.