49 pages • 1 hour read
Sonny's Blues
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Discussion/Analysis Prompt
Baldwin chooses to begin his story with the technique in media res, or “in the middle of things.” Why do you think Baldwin begins the story where he does? What impact is made on the balance of story events by beginning this way? What would change if he told the story in chronological order instead?
Teaching Suggestion: Before introducing this prompt, it might be helpful to plot out the story chronologically as a group. When students see the story chronologically, they might be in a better position to identify the impact of Baldwin’s use of in media res.
Unlock all 49 pages of this Study Guide
Get in-depth, chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis from our literary experts.
- Grasp challenging concepts with clear, comprehensive explanations
- Revisit key plot points and ideas without rereading the book
- Share impressive insights in classes and book clubs
Related Titles
By James Baldwin
