Isabel Beane
Why does Isabel feel invisible at school?
She feels ignored by classmates and is treated unkindly by Monica.
Where does Monica live?
In a spacious new home on Juniper Drive
Who is Mrs. Pickel in the story?
She is Isabel’s teacher.
What is Mama usually busy managing?
She is busy taking care of Isabel and her five siblings in a loud, active home.
Which of the siblings is considered an artist?
Irene
Why does Isabel feel invisible in her family?
She lives in a loud, busy house with five siblings, and she feels overlooked and unheard.
How does Monica treat Isabel?
She is unkind to Isabel and makes her feel small and invisible.
How does Mrs. Pickel feel about the upcoming standardized test?
She treats it as very important and puts pressure on students to do well.
How does Mama respond at first when Isabel complains about stomach pain?
She thinks it may be caused by anxiety or nerves.
Which sibling did Isabel feel like she used to be close to, but is now starting to feel left behind? Why is she feeling this way?
Ian, he started junior high and was very busy
What do the worry-moths symbolize for Isabel?
They represent her anxiety, fears, and overwhelming feeling.
How does Monica contribute to Isabel feeling “invisible”?
She ignores her, dismisses her, or treats her as unimportant.
How does Mrs. Pickel respond when Isabel seems distracted or worried?
She focuses more on keeping Isabel on task than on her emotional needs.
How did Mama react when she found out that Isabel's appendix needed to be removed?
She gasped, put a hand over her mouth, and said, "Oh dear! And here I told her it was all in her head!"
What did Irene and Iliana do whenever Isabel tried to peek in the door of their bedroom?
They chased her off.
What are some ways Isabel tries to calm herself when overwhelmed?
She hums or rocks to soothe herself.
Does Monica bully Isabel openly or in quieter ways?
Mostly in quieter, subtle ways that still hurt Isabel’s feelings.
How does Mrs. Pickel’s attitude about schoolwork affect Isabel?
It increases Isabel’s stress and anxiety.
How does Papa help Isabel with the gifts for her "friends"?
He helped with the tissue and tape and gift bags.
What does the book call Ivy and Isaac?
Twin Toddler Tornadoes
Why is it hard at first for people to realize Isabel is truly sick?
They are used to thinking her stomach pain is caused by anxiety.
How does Monica help move Isabel’s character growth forward?
Her unkindness challenges Isabel and becomes one reason Isabel eventually learns to speak up.
Why might Mrs. Pickel think Isabel’s struggles are just nervousness?
Because Isabel is quiet and doesn’t clearly explain how serious her feelings and pain are.
How do Mama and Papa together show one of the book’s main lessons?
That adults can grow and learn to truly listen to children’s feelings and needs.
How did Ian used to help Isabel? Name three things.
1) He would help her with her homework.
2) When she lost her words, he'd speak for her.
3) When she got overwhelmed by hullabaloo, he would talk her through it.