A dream is a wish your heart makes—but sometimes dreaming isn't as simple as just wishing on a star. The kids in Mr. Ward's class don't seem to have a ton of options at the start of the school year, but they slowly learn that the future is waiting for them. As they learn about each other and themselves, these kids open up to the dreams that were already tucked away inside their hearts. Sure, turning these hopes into reality will be hard work, but they're up for it. In Bronx Masquerade, dreams are worth going for, no matter the odds.
Questions About Dreams, Hopes, and Plans
- Why might students in a low-income school district have a harder time imagining bright futures for themselves? Give evidence from the text.
- How do the plans the kids in Mr. Ward's class make give them a new outlook on their current lives? Be specific, please.
- Whose dreams do you think are most attainable? Who do you think will have a tough time making their dreams come true? Why? What differences do you notice between these characters?
Chew on This
Many of the kids in this story want to pursue careers in the arts because of their response to Mr. Ward's English lessons.
Lupe expresses what all Mr. Ward's students already know: Making your dreams come true is hard work, and sometimes you have to put up a fight.