Boy Overboard

Jamal feels that his sister, Bibi, inherited the family’s “good” genes—those of their mother’s warrior ancestors—while he was born a “baker” like his father’s forebears. What causes him to change his mind about this neat division of genetic traits? In what ways does he show himself to be a warrior, not just physically but in his resilience and problem-solving skills?

Jamal’s optimism often misleads him, giving him a false impression of what is going on around him. Cite three examples of him misinterpreting events, situations, or others’ actions. How does this persistent misunderstanding reflect his innocence, and in what ways does his perception mature as the story unfolds?

Jamal envies his sister’s “warrior spirit,” but her combativeness has a downside as well. In what ways do her boldness and quick temper endanger herself, Jamal, and her family? Consider specific instances where her defiance escalates a dangerous situation. What strategies does Jamal use to calm her, and are they always successful? What do these interactions reveal about their sibling dynamic?

Like Jamal, Omar feels haunted by traits that he thinks he’s inherited from his ancestors. What are these traits, and how do they shape his self-perception? How do his actions on the boat voyage belie his fears, and in what ways does he redefine his own identity through his choices and friendships?

Both Bibi and Rashida boldly defy the Taliban’s notions of feminine behavior, but in different ways. Compare their defiance and the causes of their rebelliousness. How do their backgrounds, personalities, and experiences shape their acts of resistance? What consequences do they face for challenging gender norms, and how do they handle them differently?

Yusuf’s grandfather defines going “overboard” as doing “something that is bold, wild, dangerous and daring.” (39) Which actions of the book’s characters meet this definition of going overboard? Do any of these actions backfire, or are they always necessary for survival? How does this idea of taking extreme risks relate to the broader theme of displacement and migration?

Jamal’s soccer ball is almost a character in Boy Overboard since it drives much of the action. In what ways does it get the other characters into trouble? How does it also come to their rescue? Consider how the soccer ball symbolizes hope, defiance, and identity throughout the novel.

Provide examples from Boy Overboard of team sports (such as soccer) serving as a metaphor for political strife, prejudice, and/or tribalism. How do Jamal’s experiences with soccer reflect the power struggles in Afghanistan and the refugee experience? Does soccer also offer the possibility of unity and belonging, or does it reinforce divisions?