The Setup:
* Lyric is a 12-year-old girl struggling financially with her single mother. They are living in a cramped apartment with no extras.
* Lyric is a bright and talented student, but she feels pressured to help her family by finding a way to make money.
* She stumbles upon an opportunity to make quick cash by "helping" an older boy, Jerome, cheat on a school project.
The Dilemma:
* Lyric feels torn between doing what she believes is right and the desperate need to help her family.
* She initially feels justified in her actions because she believes she's just helping herself and her mother.
* As she gets deeper into the scheme, Lyric starts to feel guilty and question her choices.
The Resolution:
* The consequences of Lyric's actions begin to unfold, creating more problems and putting her in danger.
* She realizes that the quick money isn't worth the moral and emotional cost.
* Lyric eventually makes a tough choice to stand up for herself and do what she knows is right.
Themes:
"Money Hungry" explores themes of:
* Poverty and financial struggles: The book realistically portrays the challenges of living in poverty and how it can influence choices.
* Ethics and morality: Lyric's internal struggle highlights the difference between right and wrong and the consequences of making unethical decisions.
* Friendship and loyalty: Lyric's relationships with friends and family are tested by her actions, forcing her to confront the true meaning of loyalty.
* Self-worth and responsibility: Lyric learns that true worth comes from her own character and not from material possessions or quick gains.
Overall, "Money Hungry" is a story about the importance of integrity, making difficult choices, and finding strength within yourself.