The irony of racism
Racism is a given in America, since it's so intimately connected to the nation's history, but to a newcomer, a child, for instance, the entire premise seems obviously wrong and unnecessary. Tricia Ann has to come to peace with racism, but first she has to learn what it means that people hate her because of her skin color, because the idea of racism doesn't quite make sense to her. This is the correct response to racism—absolutely bewilderment. Racism is a foolish response to diversity.
The ironic extent of segregation
Tricia is constantly amazed by how stupid the Jim Crow rules are. What difference does it make whether a black person has sat on a bench or not? How could such silly rules apply to such particular things? Her answer comes with the help of her community who comes alongside her and encourages her: "Just because the world wants you to believe badly about yourself, you don't have to give in. You can just be yourself."
The ironic power of libraries
For silent study halls, libraries sure are meaningful. This story invites the reader to remember how important the human right of access to information is. When the reader learns that the library is not segregated, there is a religious significance to that. A library is a sanctuary from the brokenness of the world.
The irony of community
Going out in public means finding all those wonderful smiling faces who help Tricia to find her bravery and trust in the world, but it also means encountering hatred and racism. So for Tricia, there is a dual nature to community: People are the best part of the world and the absolute worst part of the world.
The shame of existence
One aspect of the story that comes through clearly is that Tricia must ask herself how she fits in the world. As an innocent child, she is more susceptible than most to believe what people tell her, and white people all around her constantly treat her like she's disgusting, as if she has sinned just by existing. This basic shameful realization isn't unique—it's universal in fact. The story's answer to the question of shame is, "You should learn about more people. Read lots of books and things will start to make more sense."
