What unique lesson does Buyea convey through each of the five point-of-view characters in the novel? How do the intertwining narratives help the delivery of these lessons?

Choose two point-of-view characters and analyze the style (word choice, syntax, and more) that Buyea uses for each. Compare and contrast the two characters you chose. How do these unique styles make the characters easy to follow and tell apart?

Choose a friendship between two point-of-view characters and analyze how it changes over the course of the novel. How do the two members of this relationship grow as a result? What greater messages does the relationship send, and how does it support the book’s three major themes?

While the text critiques standardized testing, what alternatives does it present? How does it convey these ideas?

What perspectives does the text offer about punishment for wrongdoing?

What insight do Mrs. Woods and Mrs. Magenta offer about the power of teachers who care about their students?

In the latter half of the novel, Scott emerges as the glue who holds the group of kids together. What does Scott represent about initiating change?

What does each setting in this novel represent? Think, for example, of the classroom, the playground, the library, and the senior center.