Sandwiches and Beef

The short story “The Ingredients” by Jason Reynolds tells a tale about four boys, Jamal, Big Boy, Flaco, and Randy, during a summer in Brooklyn. After a long, hot day at the pool, they all consecutively decide they are hungry and to go to Flaco’s house for food. During their quest for food, they all ended up getting into a heated discussion about what they each believe are their perfect sandwich combos. Which I believe is the beginning of what the author is trying to convey, that being the imagination and unique perspective and understanding of the world that the kids see. The ingredients being a gateway to each of their own creative and unique personalities, and the subtle roasting of each other being an escape from others' opinions of them and their choices in ingredients. An example of one of the boys’ ingredients being mocked is, “All the delis we passing on this yellow brick road, and this fool gon’ ask the wizard for peanut . . . butter . . . and jelly.” (Reynolds). The quote being in reference to Flaco’s choice in a sandwich, which Big Boy is making fun of. Soon after, Jamal says, “Uh-oh, it’s already started,” Jamal jokes.

“Shut up!” Big Boy squawks, his shut ups always at the ready. “It’s called pumpernickel.” Again, from Jamal. (Reynolds). This quote being a perfect example of the slick remarks and roasts the kids use to protect themselves in a way.

Ever since I was a young boy, I have always wanted to travel the world, in particular to Japan and explore the culture there and the people who reside. I can compare “The Ingredients” to my own desire to travel to Japan because I have always had people questioning me on why I would want to go there in the first place or, of all places, why there, or commenting on how far away it is. The moral of the story is that people will always judge you or comment on your choices, but it’s how you deal with and take those comments that matter. This is what I can see from the piece of writing Jason Reynolds has written. The roasts and giving each other friendly remarks