Here's a breakdown of the different tones present in the book:
Dark Humor: The book uses humor to cope with difficult situations. The protagonist, Lizzie, often makes sarcastic remarks and observations about her family's financial struggles, adding a touch of dark humor to the story.
Realism: Flake paints a realistic picture of poverty and its impact on families. The struggles of Lizzie's family are portrayed with honesty, showing the difficult choices they must make and the toll it takes on their lives.
Cynicism: The book explores the corrupting influence of money and how it can drive people to act selfishly. The characters are often cynical about the world around them, particularly those who are struggling financially.
Hopeful: Despite the bleakness, there is an underlying thread of hope in the story. Lizzie's determination to escape her circumstances and her love for her family suggest that even in the face of adversity, there is still a chance for redemption.
Ultimately, the tone of "Money Hungry" is a complex mix of these different elements. It is a story that is both funny and heartbreaking, cynical and hopeful, reflecting the complexities of life and the choices we make.