In Xavier's neighborhood, tattoos represent gang membership. After Xavier catches an unexpected glimpse of his new teacher's tattoos, he learns that there's more than meets the eye in stereotyping and the cultural significance of tattoos. This story is based on real events that took place during Darren Lopez's first year teaching in Washington, D.C. where he was unfamiliar with the ways of Central American immigrant culture. Through the character's discussion on stereotyping, children will learn that self expression, like tattoos, can positively show a person's journey and celebrate their culture rather than make an immediate connection to something harmful