On the ship to America, the crew calls Dom a “silent mouse.” Consider the traits of mice and the characterization of Dom. In what ways does he develop and change over the course of the narrative?

Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty frequently represent freedom and acceptance. How do Dom’s experiences in America reinforce or challenge the stereotypical notion of the “American Dream”?

Gaetano calls Dom the “king of Mulberry Street” (97) for his generosity. How does the novel examine the nature of giving, mutual support, or the importance of communal ties?