In Oklahoma, two social groups, the Greasers and Socials, live out conflicts which form from their social positions. The Greasers, being low class, and Socials, being higher classed. One day, Greasers Ponyboy and Johnny get involved in one of the common fights between Greasers and Socials. However, this one brawl ends in a conflict larger than expected. Ponyboy and Johnny flee to avoid further involvement in this case and go into hiding. From then on, many testing events take place in which the Greasers are pressured. The story goes on to narrate what happens as a result of these events.
The stigma of classic social diversity and the conflicts between the classes were deeply engrossed in this book. This social complication gave readers an opportunity to reflect on one’s own life and society which surrounds them which I enjoyed due to the reflective opportunity provided. Many lessons were taught in this story, specifically of dealing with major changes in one’s life. Also, the major aesthetic in this book which consists of the stigma of Greasers and Socials in the 1950s-1960s is interesting as it provides a historical, yet entertaining twist.
One memorable event from the book is when Ponyboy and Johnny decide to make a brave decision in which they risk their lives for the greater good. This is important because it shows the true nature of the characters as well as the major responsive events due to this.
Reviewed by Zoha, Grade 9, Twin Hickory Library
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