Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Piecing Me Together, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Intersectionality, Identity, and Discrimination
The Power of Language
Mentorship, Opportunity, and Dignity
Friendship
Summary
Analysis
Mr. Flores divides the class up into pairs and puts Sam and Jade together. He gives them cards with conversations on them. Sam and Jade go through the first conversation as directed, but on the second conversation, Jade instead says that Maxine has been talking to her about not giving up on things and people too easily. Sam responds that Mr. Franklin says she has lots to learn about listening. Sam slouches and Jade thinks that they can continue this conversation later, but Sam continues. She admits quietly that she’s uncomfortable talking about race and she doesn’t know what to say to Jade when racist incidents happen. She says she felt horrible at the mall but she didn’t know what to do. Jade says that it just feels like Sam doesn’t care when she makes it seem like Jade is making things up.
Finally, Sam and Jade come together and Sam admits where she went wrong. Importantly, Sam’s explanations don’t come off as excuses—she doesn’t try to convince Jade that what she did isn’t bad, she simply explains that she doesn’t have the tools to talk about race in the way she knows she should. Both girls are able to admit where they went wrong: Sam is too dismissive of Jade’s experiences, and Jade isn’t open or forgiving enough. By acknowledging all of this, the girls will be able to come to a better understanding, move forward, and enjoy a stronger friendship.
Themes
