what is a good thesis statement for raymond's run

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Raymond's Run

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Story Analysis

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

In the first sentence of the story, narrator Squeaky claims that she does not do housework “like some other girls” (Paragraph 1). In what other ways does Squeaky deliberately reject traditional gender roles?

Discuss Squeaky’s sole responsibility, which is to look after her brother, Raymond. What is her approach to this job, and what does it suggest about her as a character?

Compare and contrast Squeaky and her classmate, Cynthia Procter . What do their differences or similarities suggest about Squeaky’s beliefs?

Write an essay exploring the setting of the story and its significance to the characters and larger themes. Why is this setting important to the story?

Describe Bambara’s narrative tone and writing style . In what ways does her distinctive style inform and give life to the story’s characters, themes, and setting?

Describe Squeaky’s passion for running . Why does she love it, and in what ways does it have a positive impact on her life?

The story is told entirely from Squeaky’s perspective . Analyze Bambara’s choice to tell the story this way. How does this structure affect the plot and our understanding of each of the characters?

In what ways does Squeaky exhibit a clear understanding of her identity? Where in the text is it clear that she knows who she is and what she wants?

At the end of the story, Squeaky and her rival, Gretchen, develop a newfound respect for one another. Discuss the turning point in their relationship that gives rise to the potential for friendship. Will this change Squeaky’s understanding of friendships between girls? Why or why not?

Discuss the revelation Squeaky has about Raymond at the end of the story. What does she realize about her brother, and how does this realization impact her vision of herself and her future?