Mama Day does not break the story into chapters. Instead, the book is split into two large parts. Part 1 begins in New York City and from the point of view of Ophelia Day, or “Cocoa,” as her family calls her. Speaking in the second person, Cocoa reflects on her encounter with George at a coffee shop. Readers learn that Cocoa is unemployed but is scheduled for a job interview at the Andrews & Stein Engineering Company. As she judges the competing candidates for the job, Cocoa seems confident about her chances: she has graduated at the top of her class in business school and is well-qualified for the position.

The point of view then switches to a character named George, as he reflects on his experience growing up in Staten Island’s Wallace P. Andrews Shelter for Boys. He recounts the harsh disciplinary methods of Mrs. Jackson, as well as the recurring motto she drilled into the boys: “Only the present has potential, sir” (40). It then becomes apparent that George is, in fact, the same Mr. Andrews who is now interviewing Cocoa in his office. During the interview, George seems very interested in Cocoa’s personal life and history despite Cocoa’s efforts to keep the interview focused on her qualifications.