The book  Upstate by Kalisha Buckhonon is about this boy named Antonio , and he's in jail because they accused him of killing his father. In his defense he was defending his mom. To me Antonio is a strong and brave character because he still manginess to keep his head up high and maintain his relationship with his girlfriend. 

For example, in one of the letters Antonio tells his girlfriend that he confessed and said what really happened to the jury, because he couldn't stand to see his mom cry. I feel like this was strong of him because he didn't really mean to stab his dad , but he's still taking full blame for it like a real man should. I agree with his desion because he's being honest and excepting the truth. His mom and girlfriend don't agree with his desion of being honest and just coming out and saying the truth , but I agree with it because it's showing that he can step up and except reality. 

A way that Antonio is also being strong is because he's holding on to his relationship an he's not giving up on it. Which I find romantic & nice. Because he's in jail yet still rights Natasha ever chance he gets, he's always telling her that he loves her, and to marry him. This is also a sign of hope because if they weren't hopeful of him getting out of jail why would they still be engaged ? Why would they still continue with the relationship ? . The little things that these characters makes a big difference in the book, & it gives hope on what's gonna happen next is good. Also that he might get out of jail. 

This connects to the world in many ways, because it shoes you not to lose hope, & to always be honest. Honesty and hope can help you a lot in life, 2 of the main things actually , things will go better for you of you actually are honest & do believe in what you say or the future or just in general. You should always be strong & don't lose hope.