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Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

by Mildred D. Taylor

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Student Question

What is the nature of T.J's relationship with his friends in Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry?

Expert Answers

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T.J. Avery is one of the least likable characters in Mildred Taylors novel Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. His behavior angers the Logans, who are still among his best friends. When he deservedly receives a failing grade for cheating in Miss Logan's class, he reports her to the white administrators, lying about the situation. He lures Stacey to the Wallace's store, getting Stacey in trouble in the process. His lies continue, alienating most of his old friends. He eventually joins up with the Simms' in the hope of getting rich quick, but he finds out too late that they are only using him. Disloyal and deceitful, T.J.'s behavior proves to be the polar opposite of that of the other African-American characters.

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