About This Book
Frank Bonham's "Durango Street" is a powerful and unflinching young adult novel about Rufus Henry, a teen parolee trying to stay out of trouble after being released from work camp. Set in a tough urban environment, Rufus is immediately drawn into the conflict between the Gassers and the Moors, ultimately joining the latter for protection. The book explores themes of survival, identity, and the systemic challenges faced by youth in disadvantaged communities, offering a raw and realistic look at gang life without glamorizing it. It's an excellent choice for sparking discussions about choices, consequences, and social justice.
When Rufus Henry gets out of work camp for grand theft auto, he has only one place to go -- back to Durango Street. Sure, he'd like to keep a steady job and obey his parole officer, but there's no way to do that when the Gassers are chasing him. Rufus doesn't have a choice: he joins the rivals Moors. With a gang to back him up, he'll be all right on Durango -- for a while. But when the Gassers catch up to them, will he end up dead?
Violence
peril_danger
separation_from_parent
mental_health_themes
crime
Discussion Prompts
1
What difficult choices does Rufus face, and why does he make them?
2
How does the book show the realities of gang life, and how does it differ from what you might see in movies or TV?
3
What are some of the systemic issues that contribute to Rufus's situation?
4
How does Rufus try to maintain his sense of self and hope despite his circumstances?
5
What does the book suggest about the meaning of "belonging" and "loyalty" in a gang context?
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