Ricki and Ezra are described as fated lovers. How do their personalities, values, and tastes contribute to the sense that they’re destined to be together?

How does Williams portray the changes that have taken place for over a century in Harlem? How does this offer commentary on real-life issues of gentrification and systemic racism?

Compare the influence of family in the novel. How does Ricki’s biological family differ from her chosen family of Della and Tuesday? How are they the same?