"The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas is a powerful novel that follows the story of Starr
Carter, a 16-year-old black girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend,
Khalil, at the hands of a white police officer. The book explores themes of racism, police
brutality, and activism.
Chapter 1:
The novel opens with Starr describing her two lives: one in her predominantly black
neighborhood, Garden Heights, and one at her predominantly white school, Williamson
Prep. Starr is at a party in Garden Heights with Khalil when they leave and are pulled over by
a police officer. The officer shoots and kills Khalil, leaving Starr traumatized.
Chapter 2:
Starr returns home and tries to process what has happened. She tells her parents about the
shooting and they urge her to keep quiet about what she witnessed. Starr's uncle, Carlos,
who is a police officer, also talks to her and tells her that Khalil was involved in illegal
activities.
Chapter 3:
Starr returns to Williamson Prep, where she tries to maintain her composure and hide her
emotions. She is uncomfortable with the way her white classmates are talking about the
shooting, and she feels like she can't be herself around them.
Chapter 4:
Starr attends Khalil's funeral, where she reconnects with childhood friends and sees Khalil's
family members. She is conflicted about whether to speak out about the shooting or to keep
quiet, and she struggles to find her voice.
Chapter 5:
Starr tries to speak up about Khalil's death during a school assembly, but she is interrupted
by the principal. She also confronts her friend Hailey about her insensitive comments
regarding the shooting. Starr struggles with her relationship with her boyfriend, Chris, and
takes him to a neighborhood barbecue to show him what her community is really like.
Chapter 6:
Starr attends a basketball game with her family and friends, where she sees Khalil's older
brother, Seven, for the first time in years. Seven is angry about Khalil's death and wants
revenge, but Starr and her family try to convince him to stay out of trouble. Starr also has a
run-in with Hailey, who accuses her of changing since Khalil's death.
Chapter 7:
Starr returns to Williamson Prep after her meeting with the prosecutor, where she is
frustrated by the lack of support from her classmates and the administration. She confronts
Hailey about a racist post on Instagram and ends their friendship. Starr struggles with her