THEME & TONE
The central problem of the novel focuses on ZJ struggling with changes in whom?
His Father
By the end of the novel, ZJ learns to accept painful ______.
Truths
One major theme is the impact of memory and ______.
Loss
Small early hints about the father’s condition build this literary device.
Foreshadowing
ZJ avoids asking direct questions because he is protecting himself from painful ______.
The Truth
ZJ’s main struggle is understanding what is happening to his father’s ______.
His Health
Writing stories helps ZJ do what with his father’s changes.
Cope/Understand
The overall tone of the novel is reflective and ______.
bittersweet
When readers feel tension as they notice the father’s changes, the author builds this.
Suspense
ZJ’s mother tries to stay strong despite her ______.
Fear
The father’s past career in this sport plays a major role in the conflict.
Football
ZJ’s growth shows he becomes more emotionally ______.
Mature
The title suggests a time before everything ______.
Changed
Football represents more than a sport; it is the father’s strength and past identity. What is this literary device called?
Symbolism
ZJ’s friends support him mainly by listening and giving him ______.
space