How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Mama said she would like to see you join the army because it would keep you safe. How's it going to keep you safe if there's a war on? (14.9)
In his letter to his brother, Willis, Reese talks about how their mother sees joining the army as a better option than staying on the streets. Reese, who sees both settings as ultra violent, is skeptical.
Quote #8
"Another thing I'm afraid of is getting caught up in a stickup or a drive-by with some fool who don't know how to use a gun just popping off caps and killing everybody," Diego said. (16.15)
In a group session where Reese and his peers are asked to discuss their fears, it's clear they don't just fear intentional violence—they also worry about violence that affects innocent bystanders.
Quote #9
In my life, somebody was always being shot or being beat up or killed. (21.8)
Reese has experienced so much violence in his life that he's almost grown numb to it. When he hears about someone from the neighborhood who has been shot, he finds it difficult to care because it's so commonplace.