Beginning the Street Lawyer

The Street Lawyer by John Grisham is one of my favorites by Mr. Grisham (possibly second to only Playing For Pizza).  Dealing with homelessness, this book will lead nicely into our next project: an expository essay on a social issue.  It is also worth noting that Mr. Grisham has practiced criminal law and has been a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives.

As we read, I will periodically be posting blog prompts for you to explore (remember that you need to support your thoughts with details from the text). These prompts are designed to get you thinking about the novel in ways that you may not have before.  We want to get below the surface of the text!

Remember, your blog posts need to be at least 300 words, demonstrate good writing conventions and are thoughtful.

Blog Prompts

1. Why do you suppose Michael believes Mister wasn't going to kill the lawyers? 
2. Describe Michael and Claire's relationship.  Could this contribute to Michael's decision to leave the firm?
3. What two worlds are juxtaposed in the opening two chapters of this book?  How are we made to feel about each?
4. We learn that Mister was a Vietnam War Veteran named DeVon Hardy.  How are the situations that the homeless face similar to that of Vietnam Vets returning home?  Does this change how you view Mister?
5. Michael sees it as almost fitting that a group of lawyers be held hostage, instead of schools and theaters.  Why do you suppose this is?
6. Compare and contrast Michael Brock with Mordecai Green.