Draper’s novel is a powerful portrayal of teenage bullying addressed as high school gang violence. The two main characters, Romiette Cappelle and Julio Montague are teenagers who fall in love. (think about Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet) Romiette is of African-American heritage and Julio is of Hispanic heritage. The two teenagers face brutal discrimination because of other teenagers opposing their interracial relationship. One such opposing group is a dangerous high school gang who call themselves the Devildogs. They go so far as to threaten Romiette and Julio in order to “teach them a lesson.” The main characters face critical life decisions that no teenager should have to face. Draper’s novel is recommended reading for all parents.
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