65 pages • 2 hours read
Promise Boys
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Important Quotes
Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, racism, child abuse, addiction, and cursing.
“Principal Moore created a boiling pot of toxic masculinity and male fragility. You think I’m talking about the students, but no. The kids are kids, they don’t know any better. It’s the adults. The teachers, the security guards, the leadership.”
(Part 1, Interlude 4, Page 10)
Although the truth of the corruption of Promise’s leadership is hidden for much of the novel, Brooks positions them as antagonists from the start of the text. Through Nurse Robin’s interview, Brooks foreshadows this fact, hinting toward the “toxic” environment they have created at the school.
“That’s why I choose to tutor at Promise. To make a difference. With my white privilege, I see it as my responsibility.”
(Part 1, Interlude 5, Page 13)
As one of the few white characters in the text, Becca’s point of view introduces the perception of Black and Brown students at Promise by the public. Her belief that she is “responsible” for helping the students implies her belief of superiority. Additionally, it draws a parallel between Becca and the other two white characters in the text: Ennis and Hicks. Just as Becca uses the students to feel good about herself, Ennis and Hicks use them for fame and corruption.
“J.B.: Moore’s method ain’t do nothing for me.
DETECTIVE BO: Is that why you killed him?
J.B.: I’m done talking.
DETECTIVE ASH: Cut the crap, kid! Why were you covered in Moore’s blood if you have nothing to do with this, huh?
DETECTIVE BO: And tell us about the altercation that occurred between you and Moore earlier that day.
J.B.: Well —
DETECTIVE ASH: Do I have to remind you that it’s not looking good for you?! No more bullshit!”
(Part 1, Interlude 11, Page 26)
The transcript of J.B.’s interview with the police introduces an important component of the theme of The Impact of Systemic Racism. Although there is very little evidence against J.B., he is treated harshly and aggressively. As seen in this quote, he is interrupted, sworn at, and pressured to respond, emphasizing the detrimental nature of the police. Instead of trying to help J.B. or uncover the truth, they are insistent that he must somehow be guilty just because of his proximity to the murder.
