Characters
Who is the main character known as “Bruiser”?
Who is Brewster Rawlins
What supernatural ability does Brewster have?
He absorbs other people’s pain and injuries.
What are we meant to believe is happening to Brewster at the beginning of the novel?
He is being abused by Uncle Hoyt
What literary device is represented by Brewster’s bruises?
Symbolism
What point of view is used throughout the novel?
Multiple first-person narration.
Which character is Brewster’s younger brother?
Who is Cody Rawlins?
What happens to people after Brewster absorbs their pain?
They heal or feel relief.
What first causes Tennyson to be very distrustful of Brewster?
Seeing Brewster's back in the locker room and Brew saying nothing is happening
What do Brewster’s bruises symbolize?
Emotional and physical suffering or empathy
Name all the narrators in the novel.
Brewster, Bronte, Tennyson, and Cody.
Which twin begins dating Brewster?
Who is Bronte Sternberger?
What happens to Brewster after he absorbs someone’s injury?
The injuries and pain appear on his own body.
What activity helps Bronte connect with Brewster?
Reading/Discussing books and Poetry
What literary device gives us ideas that something weird is going on with Brewster?
Foreshadowing.
Why does Shusterman use multiple narrators?
To show different perspectives and emotions.
Which character is very protective of Bronte?
Who is Tennyson?
Why does Brewster try to hide his power?
He fears people will use him.
What family problem do Bronte and Tennyson deal with?
Their parents' failing marriage
What is the overall mood of much of the novel?
Dark, emotional, and suspenseful.
How does Cody’s narration differ from the others?
It is more innocent and childlike.
Who takes care of Brewster and Cody after their mother leaves?
Who is Uncle Hoyt?
Why is Brewster’s ability dangerous?
Too much pain or illness could kill him.
What major event changes Tennyson’s opinion of Brewster?
Discovering Brewster’s secret ability.
What is one major theme of the novel?
Pain and sacrifice.
Why is Tennyson sometimes considered unreliable?
His jealousy and assumptions affect his judgment.