Scorpions

Scorpions, by Walter Dean Myers, is an honest look into the life of a poor, inner city youth and the daily struggles he encounters.  Jamel, the main character, is a twelve year old boy who lives in Harlem with his over-worked mother, and younger sister.  Jamal tries to do the right thing, but is heavily influenced by his neighborhood.  Everyday Jamal is surrounded by violence, drugs, and poverty; elements that make it nearly impossible for him to escape. 
The novel opens in Jamal's home while he is waiting with his sister for their mother to come home from work.  Through dialogue and 3rd person narration, the reader enters Jamal's world.  When Jamal is first introduced to Mack, Jamal believes that he must become the leader of the Scorpions in order to get his brother out of jail.  But, as the novel progresses, Jamal discovers the dangers involved in gang life.  Jamal must decide what is more important, protection or personal respect.
When Jamal acquires a gun, he is given a false sense of bravery and safety.  However, the gun seems to be causing trouble for Jamal, and his best friend Tito.  Jamal and Tito soon find themselves in a bad situation, in which Tito winds up shooting the gun to protect Jamal.  However, the release of that bullet cost a young man his life.  Inevitably, Tito winds up leaving Harlem for Puerto Rico.  Jamal stays in Harlem to battle each day as a young man struggling to survive.
 
If I used this novel for a unit in literature, I would focus on several themes throughout the book.  One theme in particular would be friendship.  I would have my students analyze the relationship between Jamal and Tito, and then write an essay on whether or not their relationship was healthy or toxic by giving examples that support their claim.

Scorpions. ISBN-13: 978-0-06-4477066-7. Water Dean Myers. 1988. Newbery Honor Award. Age 14-18. African American Fiction.