All Souls: A Family Story From Southie

Examine the evolution of Michael’s grief and sense of abandonment as the narrative progresses. How does he overcome the tragedies of his past?

Analyze the book’s juxtaposition of Michael’s adult activist efforts with his recollections of his childhood. How does his current mindset recontextualize the tragedies of his past?

What are some of the myths that the citizens of Southie tell themselves about their neighborhood? Why do they tell themselves these myths?

Michael loses four of his siblings to various tragedies. How do The Complexities of Close-Knit Communities contribute to these losses?

Research and discuss the figure of Whitey Bulger and explain why the young Michael initially respects him but eventually grows to abhor him.

Explain the reasons for Michael’s early hatred of the police. How does he justify his position? Does his adult perspective shift his stance somewhat? Why or why not?

Why does the adult Michael feel that he has no choice except to move back to Southie?

Discuss the issue of poverty as portrayed in All Souls. How does this topic intertwine with issues of class and racism in South Boston?