Chance

Explore how the name "Chance" is applicable to the events in the chapter. On what does the city take a chance? On what does Williamson take a chance? On what does Tusani take a chance? As you evalute the characters you have encountered, what larger societal issues are uncovered in this chapter? As Williamson takes a chance with Chance, what does she place at risk? Because there are several issues and conflicts presented in this chapter, you may choose to explore another aspect of interest to you.

Mona

On page 202 Williamson says to her niece, "Little girl, if you're gonna survive in this cruel world, you're gonna have to be a lot smarter and stronger than your mother." As you reflect on this chapter, to whom does this advice also apply? Use evidence from the chapter to support your response.

Joseph

There is something about Joseph that intrigues Lisa. Although she is fully aware that he is married and he tells her, "You're too young and you deserve more than to be waiting on some old married man," she decides to wait anyway (177). Not only does she wait, she pursues a relationship with an unavailable man, ultimately contradicting her beliefs. She says, "I was in love--deep, deep love--with a married man" (189). So the question becomes, why Joseph? What does Williamson's actions reveal about her character in this chapter? How do you view her at this point in the text?