How does the book Monster connect to the theme of the American Dream?

Throughout the novel, Steve references numerous adages and tenants that are mottos for the American legal system. At the beginning of the novel, Steve believes that he is "innocent until proven guilty" and that there is "liberty and justice for all." In the courtroom, Steve looks up to see images of the United States flag and George Washington. The novel's inclusion of these ideas and images reflect how idealism has been tightly interwoven into the fabric of the American subconscious. Throughout Steve's trial, he realizes that individuals lie under oath in order to fulfill their own selfish needs. He also learns that bribery is omnipresent. In these ways, Steve's idealism is shattered.