Tears of a Tiger depicts ordinary Americans who happen to be black—and, to some degree, explores how race impacts their lives. For the most part, race is a latent backdrop in the novel. Most of the time we're focused on the aftermath of the accident, and how Andy deals with it. However, part of his recovery process is talking about how he is treated differently because he's black—and his relationship with his identity as a black person is a point of conflict and distance for Andy with his family. And this distance, of course, is part of why Andy feels so alone.
Questions About Race
- What would be different if Andy weren't black? Would it change anything in the novel?
- Why do the teachers and store clerks assume things about Andy because of his race? Do you think he fits their assumptions or not?
- How do Andy's parents react to racial identity? What is the difference between his mom's and his dad's reactions? How big of a deal is race in Andy's relationship with his parents?
Chew on This
Even though Andy experiences some racial stereotyping, he often brings teacher's assumptions and treatment on himself by acting out and forgetting assignments.
Andy may experience racism, but ultimately the biggest problem race presents is within his own family unit.