48 pages 1 hour read

Matthew Cody

Powerless

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2011

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Essay Topics

1.

What are the implications of the superpowers being drained from the characters? Is this process involuntary, or do some of the kids desire to relinquish their powers? How does Plunkett’s action of draining powers at age 13 relate to consent and violation within the narrative?

2.

Explore Plunkett’s justification for removing powers when kids turn 13. Is his approach justified as a preventive measure? What alternative methods to prevent potential misuse of powers as children grow older could be established?

3.

Rank the superpowers present in Powerless from most powerful to least. How does the characters’ use of powers influence their powers’ strength? Would the ranking change if powers were assigned to different characters, and what criteria inform this hierarchy? Support your answer with evidence from the text.