The Unfair Advantages Given to Privileged Persons
This Is Our Story criticizes the unfair advantages given to privileged persons. The overarching theme is introduced early on in the book, as Kate notes in Chapter 2: “I hate the legal system. Hate it. I’ve learned that not all who should go to jail do. And not all who should walk free will” (20). The River Point Boys seem to recognize their advantages. Despite being suspected of a possible murder, they “look happy and carefree, just as boys with bright futures and privileged backgrounds should look” (13).
Throughout the narrative, the unfair advantages conferred on the privileged River Point Boys—all rich, white males from powerful, well-connected families—is emphasized repeatedly. They never seem to get in trouble for their actions, even when they blatantly break the law. Henry, for instance, has been pulled over for drinking and driving multiple times but never arrested.
Kate’s character repeatedly flags such injustice. Her character is painted as the antithesis of privileged, as her and her (single) mother’s difficult financial status are emphasized. However, even Kate has some level of privilege. She received her internship because her mom already worked for Mr. Stone. Additionally, although the book does not delve into questions of race, Kate is presumably a white woman—a fact that in itself confers some level of privilege.
