Wes Moore's "Five Days" - A Book Circle Discussion

Building Opportunity in Delaware

2020 Book Circle Discussions

As you discuss Five Days: The Fiery Reckoning of an American City by Wes Moore, here are a few suggested questions that might help stimulate conversation.

·  What was your initial reaction to the book?

·  The book tells the story of the Baltimore uprising both through Moore’s own observations and through the eyes of other Baltimoreans. Which perspective did you relate to the most, and what was it about them that you connected with? Were any challenging to connect with?

·  If you live in a privileged neighborhood, imagine how your life would be different if your neighborhood experienced high rates of unemployment and poverty. If you live in a high crime neighborhood, imagine how your life would be different if people had jobs and more income.

·  The story centers on Freddie Grey's hard life and early death, tracing how systemic, institutional poverty and racism create a system of inequality so extreme that children like Freddie have no chance. Do you see evidence of this “opportunity gap” in Delaware?

·  Has Five Days changed the way you think about opportunity?

·  What is happening in your community and in Delaware to address issues systemic, institutional poverty and racism?

·  What needs to continue to make this a reality? What do we need to do more of in our communities? What are some actions you can take in your community, your schools, your workplace, and your local government?

·  Has reading Five Days changed your perception of your community or of Delaware? Has it changed your opinion or perspective about anything else?

We would love your feedback about your Book Circle discussion. 

Please share your thoughts and ideas here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2020BookCircle. Thank you!