Ch. 7: Take Me!
What is Steven's initial reaction to Jeffrey's diagnosis, and how does it affect his daily life?
Steven feels overwhelmed and shocked by Jeffrey's leukemia diagnosis, which causes him to become distracted and anxious in his daily life.
How does Steven's academic performance reflect his emotional state?
Steven's academic performance declines as he becomes preoccupied with worry and stress about Jeffrey's condition.
How does Steven's perception of his parents shift in this chapter?
Steven starts to see his parents as vulnerable and human, recognizing their struggles and sacrifices in dealing with Jeffrey's illness.
What significant event occurs at the end of this chapter, and how does it impact Steven?
Steven has a breakdown, symbolized by the creation of "Dangerous Pie," which serves as a turning point for him to confront his emotions.
What is the significance of the title "Drums, Girls, + Dangerous Pie," and how is it introduced in the early chapters?
Chapter 1. The concept of "Dangerous Pie" is introduced early on when Jeffrey uses Steven's drumsticks, setting the stage for the novel's themes.
How does Steven's relationship with his brother Jeffrey change in this chapter?
Steven becomes more protective and caring towards Jeffrey, realizing the severity of his brother's illness.
What advice does Mrs. Galley, the school counselor, give to Steven?
Mrs. Galley advises Steven to take care of himself and to find healthy ways to express his feelings, emphasizing the importance of self-care.
What are some coping strategies that Steven uses to deal with his stress?
Steven relies on drumming, talking to friends, and confiding in Mrs. Galley to cope with his stress.
How does Steven's relationship with his brother Jeffrey continue to develop?
Steven becomes more compassionate and attentive towards Jeffrey, valuing the time they spend together.
How does Steven's role as an older brother become apparent in the first few chapters?
Chapters 1-3. Steven's interactions with Jeffrey show his mixed feelings of protectiveness and frustration.
What role does music play in Steven's coping mechanism?
Music, particularly drumming, serves as an emotional outlet for Steven, helping him manage his stress and emotions.
How do Steven's friends respond to his situation at home?
Steven's friends initially don't understand his behavior, but some begin to offer support once they learn about Jeffrey's illness.
How does Jeffrey's illness affect Steven's relationship with his teachers?
Steven's teachers notice his change in behavior and try to offer support and accommodations, but Steven often feels misunderstood.
What role do Steven's friends play in supporting him during this chapter?
Steven's friends begin to rally around him, offering emotional support and helping him feel less isolated.
What event marks the beginning of the family crisis, and how does Steven initially react?
Chapter 5. This is when Jeffrey's diagnosis with leukemia is revealed, and Steven's initial reaction is explored.
How are Steven's parents managing the situation with Jeffrey's illness, and how does this impact Steven?
Steven's parents are deeply absorbed in Jeffrey's care, which makes Steven feel neglected and isolated.
What internal conflict does Steven face regarding his feelings about Jeffrey's illness?
Steven struggles with feelings of guilt for being healthy while his brother is sick, and he battles with resentment for the attention Jeffrey receives.
What does Steven learn about the importance of communication in this chapter?
Steven learns that open communication is crucial in maintaining relationships and managing his emotions.
How does Steven's view on his own role in the family change?
Steven starts to see himself as an important support figure for his family, taking on more responsibilities.
How do Steven's relationships with his parents and friends begin to change by the end of these chapters?
Chapter 6. By this point, the changes in Steven's relationships due to Jeffrey's illness become more evident.
What does Steven learn about the impact of illness on family dynamics?
Steven learns that illness can strain family relationships and change dynamics, forcing everyone to adapt and find new ways to support each other.
How does Steven's involvement in school activities change?
Steven becomes less involved and more withdrawn from school activities as he deals with his family's crisis.
How does Steven's understanding of empathy evolve?
Steven gains a deeper understanding of empathy, realizing the importance of considering others' feelings and perspectives.
What realization does Steven come to about dealing with difficult emotions?
Steven realizes that it's okay to feel a range of emotions and that expressing them is a healthy part of the coping process.