Literary Analysis of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

One theme emerging in the story “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas is that don’t be scared because your greatest supporters will be right behind you. The author shows this theme through many different scenes in the book especially whenever she talks to her loved ones. During their conversations together the author regularly reminds both Starr and us, the readers, that they will always be there for her. Even when she’s scared to speak out, her loved ones let her know that she doesn't have to feel like she has to do anything if she doesn't want to, they give her space and comfort when she needs it and even if she doesn't know it they're always right behind her. One of the biggest examples is her dad whenever they have serious talks he always lets her know he’s there for her and that he would protect their family no matter what.

According to pages 274 and 276 of the book it says, “I won’t let him do anything to you,” Daddy says.” and, “He turns around and wipes a plate. “We can look at some houses before you go to it.” Momma’s hand goes across her chest, and she steps back. “What?” He looks at me, then at her. “I’m getting us outta Garden Heights, baby. You got my word.” The idea is as crazy as a four-point shot. Living somewhere other than Garden Heights? Yeah, right. I’d never believe it if it wasn’t Daddy saying it. Daddy never says something unless he means it. King’s threat must’ve really got to him.” This shows that after the sudden meeting with King, Starr’s father is much more determined to keep his family safe from King and anyone else in Garden Heights. Even Starr acknowledges that him making a statement like moving out of Garden Heights since he always pushed off the idea of moving away. So, we can make an inference that he is willing to leave his life for his family.

Even before those events, in the beginning of the book in pages 94 and 95 it says, “I don’t care if it’s not fine.” She looks at me. “She’s not doing this alone.” Those words feel as good as any hug I’ve ever gotten.” and, “Momma takes my hand, and her tight squeeze tells me what she doesn’t say out loud—I got your back.” This reveals that even when Starr was going through a difficult time, having to be in a place filled with people that may be like #115, her mom was there for her, letting her know she isn't alone and that she will be there for her the entire time. 

To add on, in page 254 it says, “Did you fight him, Uncle Carlos?” He straightens up. “No, I had a discussion with him.” “You mean your fist talked to his eye. Did he say something about me?” “He pointed his gun at you. That was more than enough.” His voice has a foreign edge to it. It’s totally inappropriate, but I laugh. I have to hold my side I laugh so hard. “What’s so funny?” he cries. “Uncle Carlos, you punched somebody!” “Hey, I’m from Garden Heights. I know how to fight. I can get down.” This suggests that when Starr’s uncle “talked” with the killer of Khalil, he even put aside that they were coworkers and punched him because not only did he kill Khalil, he also pointed a gun at Starr as if she was so dangerous to the point that she could kill him too. Even her uncle admits that even if he’s a cop he wanted to help people, actually, not just kill people for no reason.

As expressed, these scenes suggest that you don't have to be scared, because your greatest supporters will be right behind you. We are shown how much her loved ones care for her to the point where they even go against their morals/words. While some of her loved ones show that they're there for her through actions while others help her emotionally. In the end, whatever happens, whether she knows it or not, her loved ones were and always will be right behind her.