Original Edition The West Side Story is a tragic love story of Tony and Maria that touches all in many ways. Set in New York City, it introduces two groups. The Jets: an American gang and The Sharks: a Puerto Rican gang. The gangs attend a community dance in which they plan a fight. Things take an interesting twist when Tony -- the former leader of the Jets -- falls for Maria, Bernardo's sister. Bernardo happens to be the leader of the Sharks who he doesn't want his sister involved with his rival. This is, without a doubt, an urban equivalent of Romeo and Juliet. The stories are very similar, but West Side Story has an irresistible urban appeal, an appeal that has been capturing audiences and readers, young for many decades. Also included: A Study Guide for students and teachers.