1. Rufus replaces Bantu as leader of the Moors without a "duel to the death." What in Rufus's character establishes him as the new leader?
2. What similarities do you see between the Moors and the typical groups of teenagers to be found in American high schools?
3. How does the environment of Durango Street contribute to the existence of street gangs such as the Moors? Have conditions changed since the 1960s?
4. Rufus's admiration for Ernie Brown seems to go beyond the fact that Ernie is a sports hero. What are the qualities and accomplishments that Rufus admires?
5. At the conclusion of the novel, the Moors' problem with the Gassers is not resolved, yet the ending is a positive one. Why is this so and what do you think the next phase of the confrontation will be?
6. Rufus has nothing but distrust for the social worker at Pine Valley, but he trusts Alex Robbins. Why?
7. According to Rufus, what happens to those who do not join gangs on Durango Street?
8. What impact does family life have upon gang members and their behavior? Give specific examples.
9. Why does Rufus risk being sent back to Pine Valley when he purposely gets himself fired from the tire shop?