The Outsiders story is set in Tulsa, Oklahoma in the 1960s. The theme of the story revolves around a group of friends who are part of a gang and experience various events, including deaths, fights and pleasant moments. The author, SE Hinton, conveys a message to readers about the dangers of getting involved in gangs. She points out that there are other activities to engage in instead of joining a gang. Additionally, Hinton points out the consequences gang members may face, such as death, serious injury, or prolonged coma resulting from fights. It is crucial that readers, whether gang members or not, consider these consequences. SE Hinton includes characters involved in gangs so that readers who are also involved in gangs can understand the consequences experienced by the characters in The Outsiders. Readers can learn from the characters' experiences, such as their fights with the "Socs" or other gangs, and their consequences, such as Johnny's death. The author's goal is to entertain the reader and keep them engaged in the story. The author uses conflict and drama to persuade the reader to continue reading and find out what happens next. The tone of the story varies: tragic, uplifting, positive, optimistic, realistic and suspenseful. The author uses these tones during dramatic events, such as when Bob is stabbed, the burning of the church, the death of Ponyboy's parents, the deaths of Bob, Johnny and Dally, Ponyboy's reaction after succeeding in his class, and when Johnny is in the hospital and tells Ponyboy to "stay golden."