Why do you think the author chooses to both begin and end his memoir with an Introduction and Epilogue focusing on his teenage son, rather than himself? How does Luis use his son’s struggle to introduce larger issues such as historical American riots and police brutality? 

Over the course of the memoir, Luis’ grows from a shy, timid child to a hardened gang member. What in the author’s early childhood contributed to his eventual gang membership? Consider factors such as his family, his educational opportunities, his class status, and his neighborhood. 

Examine the character of Chente Ramirez. While Rodriguez disdains most adults and authority figures, Chente remains a constant, positive presence throughout Luis’ adolescence. Why do you think this is? What makes Chente so important to Luis?