This novel highlights many issues with the stereotypes and prejudice towards people, dictated by the inability to recognize the differences within different cultures among different social classes. One of the issues that Reese discusses is the social problems that people in communities such as Chawktown face since they have little opportunity to escape gang violence and achieve something in life. As this book demonstrates, Marshawn’s story is an exception rather than a normal path of an African-American growing up in the suburbs of Los Angeles.
Another issue that this story highlights are that people are united not on the basis of their race, gender, or social status. Instead, common interests and passions are something that can help two individuals understand one another and feel close to the other person. Therefore, Reese shows how stereotypical thinking and prejudice do not allow one to look at the actual person and their value.