Restart 1
Who is the main character of Restart?
Chase Ambrose
Who helps Chase learn about his past after the accident?
His new friends from the video club
How does Chase’s accident change his personality?
Chase becomes more thoughtful, kind, and empathetic after his accident. He no longer bullies others.
Why does Shoshanna eventually forgive Chase?
Shoshanna forgives Chase when she realizes his regret is sincere and that he’s truly changed.
What message does Gordon Korman send about forgiveness through Chase’s story?
Korman shows that forgiveness allows healing for both sides — Shoshanna and Chase both grow when they let go of the past.
What major event happens to Chase at the beginning of the novel?
He loses his memory after a fall
What club does Chase join after his accident?
Video Club
Why do some students and teachers have trouble trusting Chase after his accident?
They remember his old bullying behavior and don’t believe someone can change so easily.
What does Chase learn about true friendship from Brendan and the video club?
He learns that real friends accept you for who you are, not how popular or powerful you seem.
How does Chase’s amnesia serve as both a blessing and a curse?
Chase’s amnesia erases his mistakes but also leaves him confused and isolated. It gives him a chance to rebuild himself.
What sport does Chase play before his accident?
Football
Who does Shoshanna blame for what happened to her brother Joel?
Chase Ambrose
Describe Chase’s relationship with his father.
Chase’s father pressures him to be tough and aggressive, encouraging his old bully behavior.
How does Mr. Solway influence Chase’s character growth?
Mr. Solway teaches Chase about honor, service, and doing good for others without expecting reward.
What does Restart suggest about peer pressure and personal responsibility?
The novel warns how peer pressure can push people into cruelty, but also shows that individuals can take responsibility and choose kindness.
How does Chase lose his memory?
Falling off a roof
What is Joel Weber’s talent?
Piano
How does Chase’s relationship with his mother differ from his father’s?
His mother is caring and wants him to be genuine and kind, showing emotional support.
What evidence shows that Chase has genuinely changed by the end?
Chase defends others, helps Mr. Solway, and refuses to rejoin his old bullying friends.
How does the book show the power of empathy and perspective-taking?
Through Chase’s fresh perspective, readers see how empathy changes relationships and helps repair old wounds.
What do people at school think of Chase before his accident?
He’s a bully
What award does Chase receive at the end of the novel?
Community Service Award
What role does the video club play in Chase’s new life?
The video club helps Chase discover teamwork and creativity, allowing him to form real friendships.
How does the theme of second chances appear throughout the book?
The entire story revolves around Chase’s second chance to become a better person and make things right.
Why do you think the book is called Restart? What deeper meaning does the title have?
The title symbolizes Chase’s clean slate and the universal idea that everyone deserves a new beginning.