The Lightfoots are, in many ways, the classic American family. Two kids: one boy, one girl. Mommy makes fried chicken. Daddy works in construction. In many ways, Cassie has a wonderful childhood. You can tell how much her family members love each other.
But you know that thing where people only put their best pictures on Instagram? Cassie's a little bit guilty of doing that with the pictures here. When Mommy cries, Cassie likes to imagine a happy mom who sleeps in every morning.
Who can blame her? Everyone wants to have a perfect family…but we don't always get one.
Questions About Family
- What do the Lightfoot family and the Honeys have in common? In what ways are they different?
- Name at least three ways in which you can tell how much Cassie loves her family.
- How do the bright colors and patterns make you feel about the Lightfoots' home?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Tar Beach is about a family that's really tight.
Tar Beach is about a family that's torn apart.