School Trip

“‘I spend most of the days by myself, Ashley.’

‘Aww…Well, we can hang out all day if you want. ALL WEEK, EVEN!’”

This dialogue between Alexandra and Ashley serves as a portrayal of their contrasting personalities and sets the tone for their relationship dynamics throughout the graphic novel. It highlights Ashley’s outgoing personality and her eagerness to connect with others, juxtaposed against Alexandra’s preference for solitude.

“You probably DON’T get it, son…Drew can’t risk anyone thinking he stole that shirt…It’s just not worth it.”

Mrs. Banks’s statement underscores The Impact of Racism and Discrimination, highlighting the reality faced by many Black people who are stereotyped based on their race. It also suggests a lack of understanding or empathy from Andy, who, as a white person, doesn’t grasp the challenges faced by Drew.

“Bonjour, everyone! Any questions?…Why, yes! That IS my comic strip next to the Mona Lisa. An autograph, you say? CERTAINLY!”

This quote encapsulates Jordan’s aspirations and underscores the theme of Following One’s Dreams. His response to the imagined request for an autograph suggests his ambition to achieve success and recognition as an artist.

“‘Another creative genius on his way to Paris.’

‘What do you mean, gran’pa?’

‘Well, in my days legends like Josephine Baker, Richard Wright, and James Baldwin all went to Paris because they were treated with respect. And even a cartoonist named Ollie Harrington.’”

This exchange between Jordan and his grandfather introduces the setting of Paris and its historical significance for Black artists and intellectuals. Jordan’s grandfather addresses The Impact of Racism and Discrimination as he hints at the racial discrimination and lack of recognition they faced in the US, leading them to seek refuge in Paris.

“I know that this experience will help me become the amazing butterfly that I am meant to be.”

Through the symbolism of the butterfly, Jordan expresses his belief that the challenges and experiences he faces will ultimately lead to his growth and fulfillment of his potential. This conveys the theme of Following One’s Dreams, as Jordan sees himself on a journey of self-discovery.

“If that many people don’t like us, there has to be a reason, right? So it’s up to us if we’re going to keep giving them that reason.”

Cas’s statement prompts Andy to reflect on his behavior and the impact it has on others. This marks a turning point in Andy’s character development as he starts to consider the need for change.

“I know Andy doesn’t really get along with anyone…But he REALLY picks on Ramon a lot…So maybe you should give him a roommate like me or—”

This quote reveals Jordan’s selflessness and compassion. By volunteering to room with Andy, he shows empathy toward Ramon and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of others over his own comfort.

“‘You probably miss your friends and family so much that you’re having a hard time sleeping. Right?’

‘Actually, I was sound asleep until I felt you staring at me.’”

This dialogue captures Ashley’s well-meaning yet overbearing personality. While she shows concern for Alexandra’s well-being, her approach comes across as intrusive and patronizing. Alexandra’s response indicates that Ashley’s behavior may be more annoying than helpful.

“The more time we spend with people who aren’t like us, the more we learn that they really are like us…And if they’re not, that’s okay! Maybe we might like them anyway.”

This quote from Alexandra encapsulates the theme of The Beauty of Diversity. Through her words, Alexandra expresses the idea that it’s important to spend time with people who have different backgrounds and perspectives. Alexandra’s perspective celebrates diversity and encourages acceptance, suggesting that even if people are not exactly alike, it’s still possible to form meaningful connections and friendships.

“‘Yep! If there’s one thing that people love, it’s variety. Except when it comes to people.’

‘TOO MUCH!’”

This passage underscores the theme of The Beauty of Diversity and the challenges society faces in embracing diversity fully. The man’s response of “TOO MUCH!” reflects a common sentiment where diversity among people isn’t appreciated. It’s a commentary on societal attitudes toward diversity and the need for greater acceptance and understanding.

“MY jokes are meant to make people laugh, NOT to humiliate them, Andy. But YOUR jokes make people uncomfortable. Always think of how you’d feel if someone said the same thing to you.”

Samira highlights the distinction between harmless teasing and bullying, emphasizing the impact of words on others. This serves as a lesson in empathy for Andy, urging him to reflect on the effects of his behavior. This quote also emphasizes the power of humor to uplift rather than demean.

“I mean a goal in life. And that seems to be one of the biggest differences between kids from school and my friends from around my block.”

In this quote, Jordan reflects on the disparity in opportunities between the kids from his school and those from his neighborhood. He acknowledges the importance of having goals in life and Following One’s Dreams, and that he is privileged to have the freedom to have dreams and pursue them.

“In France, we work in order to live. But in America, it seems you live in order to work.”

In this quote, Sylvie compares and contrasts the cultural attitudes in France and America. She highlights the French perspective of working to live versus the perspective of living to work in America. This sheds light on cultural values and societal norms regarding work-life balance.

“Like, around my block, I’m the Black kid who looks and acts like a white kid…then at school, I’m the Black kid. So no matter what, I feel like I’m always seen as a sellout.”

Jordan grapples with his identity as a light-skinned Black kid. He expresses feeling caught between two worlds, shedding light on the internal struggle many face in navigating their racial identity. This reflection underscores The Impact of Racism and Discrimination on personal identity and the sense of belonging.

“I’m always going to be the pudgy Latino kid who everyone thinks is Mexican.”

This is a pivotal moment for Ramon, as he opens up and bravely confronts Andy, revealing the lasting effects of his bullying and racial stereotyping. His words underscore The Impact of Racism and Discrimination, highlighting the harmful consequences of being marginalized and stereotyped.

“They never get invited to stuff, either. And when they do, people hand them their coats or ask them to bring their cars around.”

Ramon’s revelation about his parents’ experiences illustrates The Impact of Racism and Discrimination within society. The quote highlights the prejudice faced by people of color, who are often unfairly stereotyped as belonging to a lower social class in everyday social interactions.

“‘So…what happened to all your puppets, Alexandra?’

‘Well…I guess now that I have real friends, maybe I don’t need them as much as I did before.’”

This dialogue reveals the evolution of Alexandra’s character. Because of her newfound friendships, she is less reliant on her puppets. This implies a sense of belonging and fulfillment in her social interactions. It’s a testament to the positive impact of friendship on personal growth and emotional well-being.

“‘EVERYONE likes Jordan. He’s the nicest kid in the world.’

‘True. Plus he always smells like warm cinnamon and apples.’”

This exchange highlights Jordan’s kindness and the positive impact he has on those around him. Even Andy, the school bully, has a positive perception of Jordan. His comment about Jordan’s scent reinforces the image of Jordan as not only kind but also comforting and welcoming.

“Do you at least realize how different our lives are? How ONE of us will have so many more advantages than the other?”

This quote sheds light on the theme of The Impact of Racism and Discrimination, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing privilege and inequality in society. Drew is frustrated at Andy’s lack of awareness, as he doesn’t fully grasp the systemic disadvantages faced by Black people like Drew.

“‘Except that I’m ALWAYS the one who is seen as being wrong.’

‘And I don’t always want to feel guilty because your life stinks, Drew!’”

This exchange underscores the complexities of addressing racism as Drew highlights the systemic biases he faces. Andy’s response reflects a lack of empathy and understanding, as he dismisses Drew’s experiences, refuses to take accountability, and shifts blame onto him.

“I want to be an artist more than EVER now!”

This quote underscores the theme of Following One’s Dreams, as Jordan’s experience in Paris reaffirms his determination to become an artist. It also highlights the transformative power of exposure to new environments and experiences.

“‘Promise me one day you’ll go to Paris and spend it.’

‘Huh?’

‘Kirk, you’re my oldest friend. I just want to make sure that you get to stop and smell the roses, too.’”

By encouraging his friend Kirk to visit Paris, Jordan demonstrates his awareness of Kirk’s socioeconomic background and his belief in the importance of Following One’s Dreams. This gesture highlights Jordan’s commitment to inspiring and uplifting others, and it exemplifies his compassionate and empathetic nature.

“It’s been my pleasure watching you start as the new kids and seeing how much you’ve grown on this school trip.”

Mr. Roche acknowledges the transformation of Jordan and Drew from being newcomers to integral members of the group. The Paris trip helped them grow emotionally and socially, highlighting the transformative power of new experiences and friendships.