Sometimes books explore friendships between two people, but in the case of One Crazy Summer, friendship really shows up in the form of community, specifically at the Center. After Cecile is arrested, Delphine's new buddies from the Center take Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern in. There's a sense of responsibility amongst the people there. And you know what? It's pretty nice. Delphine sees how comforting it is to hang around people who get what it's like to be treated differently simple because of their skin color. From here, she starts taking an interest in the movement and wanting to be part of it. That's community for you: All for one, and one for all, and always a friend when you need one.
Questions About Friendship
- When is the community at the Center strongest? When does it seem threatened?
- How is the community at the Center connected to race? What would be different if they were not united for a common cause?
- Do you think Cecile helps the community? Why or why not? Why is she stingy with her printing press if she believes in the cause?
Chew on This
She might not be much of a mother, but Cecile is the most important friend Delphine makes.
This book shows that friendship can be a political act.