Concrete Rose takes place in 1998. This prequel novel offers a deep dive into the early life of Maverick Carter, who is known as Starr's father in Angie Thomas's acclaimed The Hate U Give.
Setting the Scene: 1998
The narrative is firmly rooted in the late 1990s, a distinct period that significantly shapes the story's environment and character interactions. Understanding this era is key to appreciating the context of Maverick's journey:
- Technology Landscape: The world of 1998 was vastly different from today's hyper-connected society. Social media as we know it did not exist, and cell phones were rudimentary devices, primarily used for phone calls with minimal other functionalities. This lack of constant digital connectivity meant that communication and relationships were often more direct and face-to-face.
- Social Dynamics: The absence of instant digital sharing meant that news traveled differently, and community ties, for better or worse, were often more localized and personal. The challenges and decisions faced by characters like Maverick unfold within this specific social and technological framework.
Key Aspects of the 1998 Setting
| Aspect of Setting | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year | 1998 |
| Technology | Pre-social media, basic cell phone functionality |
| Main Character | Maverick Carter (Starr's father from The Hate U Give) |
| Genre | Young Adult, contemporary, prequel |
By placing the story in 1998, Concrete Rose offers readers a unique perspective on the circumstances that molded Maverick Carter into the man he becomes, providing crucial backstory to the characters and themes explored in The Hate U Give. It highlights how the social and technological environment of the past influenced personal growth and the challenges faced by individuals.
