In class our small group discussion mainly focused around the insider/outsider debate. This novel includes a variety of different situations that the children are going through. There is no possible way that the author can be an insider to all these issues which makes me wonder if a book like this could ever become “authentic”? Our group also discussed whether the students are stereotyped or generalized throughout the novel. If the Bronx Masquerade was required in a schools curriculum, would children from inner-city urban schools who read this novel be offended? As a group we discussed that the students might feel stereotyped and targeted. I think this is a very valid point because so many different situations are occurring within the novel. I really enjoyed how many different voices were expressed through out the book. All the characters had different personalities which contradicted one another. I also really enjoyed Tyrone’s comments after the classmates read their poems. It was interesting to hear his interpretation of the poetry.
*the Bronx Masquerade image was found at http://www.njyac.org/booklists/images/top-grimes.jpg
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