The Hate U Give - Chapter 1: When It Happens

Setting and Context

• Party Atmosphere: The protagonist, Star, attends Big D's spring break party in Garden Heights.
• Social Dynamics: The party is crowded, with people dancing, drinking, and the air filled with weed.
• Star's Perspective: She feels out of place and reflects on her dual identity.

Characters

• Star: Main character who feels she doesn’t fit in at the party.
• Kenya: Star’s friend, sharing an older brother, Seven. Known for her confrontational nature.
• Khalil: An old friend of Star's with whom she shares a history; he seems involved in illegal activities.

Main Events

• Party Mood: Star navigates through the party, feeling uncomfortable and disconnected.
• Kenya's Plan: Kenya intends to confront a girl named Danasia, dragging Star along.
• Social Challenges: Star deals with assumptions about her being 'bougie' due to attending a predominantly white school.
• Encounter with Khalil: Star reconnects with Khalil amidst the chaos.
• Shooting Incident: Shots ring out, causing panic; Khalil escorts Star out of the party.

Themes

• Identity and Belonging: Star struggles with her identity, balancing her life between Garden Heights and her school.
• Violence and Safety: The unexpected shooting highlights the dangers in Garden Heights.
• Friendship and Loyalty: Star's relationships are tested as she navigates her social circles.

Key Conversations

• Star and Khalil: Discuss Khalil's life changes and his grandmother’s illness.
• Kenya’s Stink Eye: Represents ongoing feuds and tensions within their friend group.
• Cultural References: Discussion about music (Drake, Tupac) and social dynamics illustrates generational and cultural differences.

Important Details

• Star's Style: Chooses comfort over fashion, feeling out of place with her attire.
• Khalil's Involvement: Hints at illegal activities, despite Star’s disapproval.
• Police Encounter: Chapter ends with Star and Khalil being pulled over by the police.