Durango Street by Frank Bonham

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Description:

Durango Street, published in 1965, is a vivid, realistic portrayal of the gangs of a major city’s inner area. Rufus Henry, newly released from a detention camp does not want to get into any more trouble, but knows that he will not be able to avoid gangs. The novel investigates peer pressure and the struggle for personal freedom within gang territory.

Activities:

In this unit, students read; brainstorm; free write; research; make presentations; outline; solve puzzles; write a script for a radio broadcast; examine what-if situations and role-play; debate; concentrate on viewpoint and perspective; and focus on moral decision making. Activities focus on the values presented in the story through the sharp contrast with their opposites. Gang loyalty is contrasted with conforming to rules of society, and familial responsibilities and individual ethics are seen against material pleasures and selfishness.

Supplementary materials feature an evaluation that can be used as a review or assessment tool. An answer key is provided.

Ethical Values:

Freedom
Loyalty
Privacy
Respect