The plot is divided into sections beginning with a Preface explaining
the author's purpose in writing the book, followed by sections named with
seasons and years. It begins with Summer of 1987 and ends with September
29, 1989. Each section is then divided into 31 separate chapters. There
is also an Epilogue, which does its job by tying up the loose ends of
the narrative at least as far as how the family is fairing in the fall
of 1989.
THEMES - THEME ANALYSIS
Parts of America are War Zones
The theme of parts of America are war zones is so important to the purpose
of Kotlowitz's story. Just as if a reporter had gone to Beirut or Gaza
City or Kosovo or Darfur, he would find the same kind of children that
he could find in the projects of Chicago, Illinois, USA. These children
have lived through so much.......
The Ravages of Poverty
The theme of the ravages of poverty runs throughout the narrative. Those
who are its victims are trapped in a vicious cycle from which they cannot
seem to escape. Most of the people in the projects have dropped out of
school and have few skills that would make them desirable employees. As
a result, they must.....
Racism
Another theme, racism, is a devastating characteristic of the lives
of people in the projects. It is defeating enough to live in poverty and
.......
The Deferral of
the Dream
The theme of the dream deferred is so important to understand what motivates Kotlowitz. After spending two years in Pharoah and Lafeyette's lives, he sees.......
The complete study guide is currently available
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download store. The complete study guide contains summaries and notes
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symbolism, motifs, and imagery; a key facts summary; detailed analysis
of the use of foreshadowing and irony; a multiple-choice quiz, and suggested
book report ideas and essay topics.
Clapsaddle, Diane. "TheBestNotes on A Long Way Gone".
TheBestNotes.com.
>.