What are the common themes in African American peer pressure novels?

I would also suggest 'Monster' by Walter Dean Myers. It tells the story of a young African American male on trial for murder. Peer pressure plays a role in his life as he is influenced by the people around him in the neighborhood. He has to make choices that are often swayed by what his peers expect or do, and the novel explores the consequences of those choices.

Judgment is also a theme. Peers often judge those who don't follow their lead. The athlete who didn't want to use performance - enhancing substances was judged as 'weak' by his teammates. This kind of negative judgment from peers is a big part of what creates the pressure in these stories.

The most common peer pressure stories often involve alcohol and drugs. For instance, there are many young people who are pressured by their so - called friends to try alcohol at parties even when they don't want to. They might be taunted or made to feel like they're not part of the group if they refuse. Similarly, with drugs, some are pressured into trying them out of fear of being ostracized. Also, in the sports world, some athletes are pressured by teammates to use performance - enhancing drugs which is a huge problem.

One common element is doing something out of the ordinary. For example, like the time my friends made me sing a really loud and silly song in public just because they were all doing it. Another is the hesitation at first. In most funny peer pressure stories, there's that moment where you're not sure if you should join in. Also, there's often a lot of laughter involved, either during the act or afterwards when you look back on it. Just like when my group pressured me to wear a ridiculous hat all day, and we couldn't stop laughing every time we saw each other.

One common theme is the struggle for civil rights. Many African American graphic novels depict the historical fight against discrimination, segregation, and inequality, like in 'March'.

One common theme is the search for freedom. African American characters in these novels often strive for physical or psychological freedom. In 'The Color Purple', Celie's journey is about breaking free from the abuse and oppression she has endured. Family also plays a role. Sometimes it can be a source of support like in some parts of 'Go Tell It on the Mountain', but other times it can be a source of conflict as in 'Native Son' due to the complex family dynamics within the African American community.

One common theme is the exploration of identity. African American characters often grapple with their racial, cultural, and personal identities in the face of historical and contemporary challenges. Another theme is the struggle against discrimination. These novels may depict the ongoing fight for equality in various aspects of life such as education, employment, and social status. Family also plays a crucial role, showing the strength and complexity of African American family structures and relationships.

One common theme is the exploration of social injustice. African American characters often face discrimination within the criminal justice system in these novels. Another theme is the struggle for survival in tough urban environments. For example, in some novels, characters have to deal with poverty and gang violence while trying to stay on the right side of the law.

Family also plays a major role as a theme. It can be a source of both strength and pain. In novels like 'The Color Purple', the relationships within the family, especially among women, are complex. There are elements of abuse but also of love and support that help the characters survive and grow.

Some common themes include racial identity. African American characters often struggle to define themselves within a society that has long marginalized them. Another theme is the search for equality, both socially and politically. For example, in many novels, characters fight against systemic racism in areas like education and employment. Family also plays a crucial role, showing the strength and complexity within African American families, like in Toni Morrison's works where family relationships are central to the narrative.