Friendships
Who is Ishmael’s first real friend at St. Daniel’s Boys School?
James Scobie
Who is Ishmael’s main bully throughout the story?
What is the full opening line of the novel?
"Don’t call me Ishmael."
What event causes Ishmael to be publicly embarrassed early in the school year?
When Barry Bagsley mocks his name during the school assembly.
What food item does Razza bring to the poetry night, thinking it would impress people?
Also pick a number - 1 or 2.
Chocolate mousse in plastic cups.
LUCKY DIP:
If you selected 1 - TRIPLE points
If you selected 2 - DOUBLE points
What is one reason Ishmael enjoys being around Razza?
Razza is confident, funny, and helps Ishmael come out of his shell.
How does Barry Bagsley try to embarrass Ishmael in front of others?
By mocking his name, spreading rumors, and teasing him during class.
What does the quote "Fear is just a perception" reveal about James Scobie?
That he is brave and mentally strong, even after facing trauma.
What is James Scobie’s first major appearance in the book, and how does it affect others?
His fearless speech in front of the class impresses everyone and disarms the bullies.
Which teacher is in charge of the debating team?
Also pick a number - 1 or 2.
Miss Tarango.
LUCKY DIP:
If you selected 1 - you lose 200 points
If you selected 2 - points go to whoever is 2nd!
How do the boys work together in the debating team to strengthen their friendship?
They support each other, share ideas, and build trust while preparing for debates.
How does Ishmael begin to cope with Barry’s bullying as the novel progresses?
He gains confidence, ignores the bullying more effectively, and stands up for himself.
The following quote shows how Ishmael feels about public speaking early in the book. What does it suggest about his character?
"I'd rather wrestle a crocodile than speak in front of people."
It shows his anxiety and lack of confidence.
How does the group’s first debate shape their dynamic as friends and team members?
It brings them closer as they work together and support one another under pressure.
What unusual object does James Scobie have on his desk that symbolises his uniqueness?
Also pick a number - 1 or 2.
A plastic skull.
LUCKY DIP:
If you selected 1 - TRIPLE points
If you selected 2 - get 300 points AND choose the next question too!
In what ways does James Scobie act as a catalyst for the group's unity?
His courage inspires others, and he brings the boys together through debating and shared values.
What motivates Barry Bagsley to bully others, particularly Ishmael?
Insecurity, desire for power, and peer pressure from his group.
How does the author use humour in Ishmael’s internal monologue quotes to reflect his personality?
It highlights his intelligence, sarcasm, and self-awareness, helping the reader relate to him.
How does Ishmael’s role in the final debate reflect his personal growth since the beginning of the novel?
He speaks confidently and shows leadership, overcoming his fear of public speaking.
What illness is James Scobie said to have had, which affected his ability to feel fear?
Also pick a number - 1 or 2.
He had a brain tumor that damaged the part of his brain responsible for fear.
LUCKY DIP:
If you selected 1 - you lose 400 points!
If you selected 2 - points go to whoever is in last!
How might Ishmael’s experience with friendship have been different if he hadn’t met Razza or Scobie?
He might have remained isolated and not gained confidence, without the support system that helped him grow.
How might the story have changed if Barry and Ishmael had been forced to work together on a school project?
They might have developed a mutual understanding, or the tension might have escalated.
Razza's says "We're going to rule the school, Ishmael!" Explain how it reflects his impact on Ishmael’s life.
It shows his energy and encouragement, pushing Ishmael to be braver.
Imagine if Scobie hadn’t joined the debating team—how might that have changed the outcome of the story?
The group might not have formed, and Ishmael’s growth would have been slower or different.
What was the name of the debating topic for Ishmael’s first team debate?
Also pick a number - 1 or 2.
"That beauty is more important than brains."
LUCKY DIP:
If you selected 1 - DOUBLE points
If you selected 2 - you lose 500 points!
Do you think the friendships Ishmael forms are realistic representations of teenage relationships? Why or why not?
Answers will vary; could include points about honesty, shared challenges, and personal growth.
Should the school have done more to deal with Barry Bagsley’s behavior? Support your answer.
Answers may include arguments about teacher responsibility, missed intervention opportunities, or school culture.
What theme (idea) does the following quote represent, and why?
"If you're always trying to be someone else, who's going to be you?"
Self-acceptance because it reflects Ishmael learning to embrace who he is.
Which event do you think was the most significant turning point for Ishmael, and why?
Multiple responses possible.
Possible answers include his first debate, joining the team, or standing up to Barry.
What nickname does Barry Bagsley give Ishmael to mock his name and heritage?
Also pick a number - 1 or 2.
"Fishmael" or sometimes "Le Sewer" (a play on Ishmael’s last name, Leseur).
LUCKY DIP:
If you selected 1 - DOUBLE pointsIf you selected 2 - points go to whoever is in last!