A Room to Talk (ARTT)
The author figuratively uses the ARTT room to represent hope for the six teens with similar backgrounds. The six teens often meet in the ARTT room to openly discuss their backgrounds and their families' challenges. Through these discussions, the teens realize that they share common problems, and they encourage each other that they have a bright future despite their struggles.
Harbor
A harbor is not only metaphorical but is also symbolic because it represents a safe shelter. Literally, a harbor is a place where ships dock securely and are assured of their safety. The reader uses the harbor to represent people who take care of others and ensure their safety. For instance, the six teens are harbors to each other because they encourage themselves that they have a bright future despite their devastating past.
Stories
The stories are used symbolically to represent memories. Each teen gives their version of the story, which reflects their pas. The reader finds these stories scary, funny and life-changing. The shared stories show commonality and the unity of purpose. Similarly, these stories are therapy that makes the teens feel better and motivated to move on with life.
Racism
The mistreatment of Ashton and Amari symbolizes racism. Ashton is a white boy, but he faces bigotry. On the other hand, Amari is not happy with the double standards he sees around. For instance, Amari is prohibited from playing with toy guns because he is a black kid, but his white counterparts freely play with toy guns without restrictions.
