Characters in Depth
How does Byron’s behavior in this chapter reveal both his flaws and his role as an older brother?
Answer: He teases Kenny and acts “cool” (flaw), but he sometimes protects Kenny, showing he still cares as an older brother.
Why does Kenny feel so connected to Rufus after meeting him?
Rufus is teased too, so Kenny feels less alone.
Why does the author use humor when describing Byron’s actions?
Why does the author use humor when describing Byron’s actions?
What does this chapter reveal about the Watson family’s everyday life?
They joke, tease, and argue, showing love and conflict.
What does this chapter suggest about how kids deal with being teased or bullied?
They may laugh it off, hide, or find allies like Kenny.
What does Rufus’s introduction in this chapter tell us about differences in class and background?
Rufus is poor (hand-me-down clothes, southern accent), which makes him stand out, highlighting class differences among kids
What motivates Byron to tease Kenny so much?
Byron wants to look “tough” and gain respect.
What clues does the author give about Kenny’s feelings, even when he doesn’t say them directly?
Nervous thoughts, embarrassment, and relief when others are teased instead.
In what ways does Byron act both as a bully and a protector toward Kenny?
He mocks Kenny, but sometimes defends him from others.
How does Kenny’s relationship with Rufus challenge the idea of fitting in at school?
Even though Rufus is teased, Kenny chooses friendship, showing fitting in isn’t always about popularity
How do Kenny’s insecurities (like his lazy eye) affect the way he sees himself in relation to other kids?
Answer: Kenny feels self-conscious, believes others see him as different, and worries about fitting in
How does Rufus being teased by others change Kenny’s perspective on his own bullying?
Kenny realizes he isn’t the only target and feels both guilty and relieved.
How does the author use Rufus’s character to shift the tone of the story?
Rufus brings kindness and hope, balancing Byron’s cruelty.
How do Rufus and Byron represent two different influences in Kenny’s life?
Byron = toughness/teasing; Rufus = kindness/friendship.
What bigger theme about identity and belonging is set up in this chapter?
Acceptance and valuing true friendship over appearances.
What can we infer about Kenny’s character from the way he both laughs at Rufus and feels guilty afterward?
Kenny wants to belong and sometimes joins in teasing to fit in, but his guilt shows he is compassionate.
How might this chapter set up future conflicts between Kenny and his classmates—or even his family?
Kenny may have to choose between loyalty to Rufus or fitting in, which could create tension.
Why do you think the author introduces Rufus in Chapter 2 instead of later?
Early introduction sets up Kenny’s need for belonging.
How does Kenny’s search for friendship reflect struggles kids face in real life?
Many kids feel lonely/teased and want someone who understands them.
How might Kenny’s experiences in this chapter connect to the civil rights era?
Just like Kenny is judged unfairly for differences, people then were judged for race and class.
Compare Kenny’s view of Rufus with his view of Byron. How does this show his need for friendship?
Kenny likes Rufus and feels understood, while Byron teases him. This shows Kenny craves a kind friend.
How does the chapter show that even small daily events (like teasing) can build toward bigger themes in the book?
How does the chapter show that even small daily events (like teasing) can build toward bigger themes in the book?
How does the author use Kenny’s point of view to help readers understand the pain of teasing in a deeper way?
First-person narration lets readers feel Kenny’s shame and relief directly, making the bullying more personal and real
What does this chapter suggest about the role of family vs. friends in helping kids handle challenges?
Family love is important but imperfect (teasing, sibling rivalry), while friends can provide acceptance and belonging family can’t.
How does this chapter encourage readers to think about the meaning of courage in everyday life?
Courage isn’t only about big acts—it’s choosing kindness, standing by a friend, or facing bullying without giving up.