Characters
This character is Simon's best friend who is always there to support him, even when he gets nervous about his rhyming talents.
Who is Maria?
What internal conflict does Simon face at the beginning of the story regarding his love of rap?
Why is Simon struggling with the fear of being judged or made fun of?
How does Simon overcome his fear of public speaking?
How does Simon start practicing his raps then eventually gain confidence in himself?
Why does Simon use rap and rhymes to express himself?
How does Simon express his thoughts and feelings more comfortably with rap?
Who is Simon Barnes, and what is his dream?
How is Simon B. Rhymin' dreaming to become a famous rapper?
This person's story resonates so much with Simon?
Who is Sunny?
What external conflict does Simon face in his community?
What does Simon learn about homelessness in his community and feels a strong need to help?
What lesson does Simon learn about the impact of words?
How does he realize that words have the power to inspire and influence people?
What can we infer about Simon's relationship with his classmates at the beginning of the book?
Why does Simon feel like an outsider and shows he is not confident in his relationships with his peers?
What school project does Simon work on, and how does it challenge him?
How does his community-based project on a problem and solution make Simon use his voice in a meaningful way?
Who is Simon’s teacher, who helps him discover his true potential and encourages him to perform at the school talent show?
Who is Mr. James?
How does Simon's conflict with his classmates or friends help him grow?
Why do some of Simon's classmates not believe in him leading him to step up and prove himself?
How does Simon's project bring people together?
How does he inspire his classmates and teachers to join him in raising awareness about homelessness?
Why does Simon decide to use his voice to address issues in his community?
How is Simon inspired by learning about historical figures who stood up for what they believed in?
What issue does Simon become passionate about?
How does he become passionate about helping the homelessness community in his community?
This character is particularly mean to Simon, which character picks on Simon so much?
Who is Bobby?
How does Simon resolve his conflict about speaking up?
How does Simon find his voice and uses his rapping skills to bring attention to important issues?
How do Simon's friends support him throughout the story?
How do they cheer him on and encourage Simon when he doubts himself?
What does Simon's reaction to speaking in front of the class tell us about his personality?
Why is Simon anxious and self-conscious about public speaking in the beginning but gains confidence in the end?
What challenges does Simon face in finding his voice, and how does he overcome them?
Why does Simon struggle with fear of public speaking but overcome it by rapping to help his community?
Which character goes with Simon to visit the homeless shelter which leads to really important events that take place in the book?
Who is C.J.?
What lesson does Simon learn from facing his conflicts?
How does Simon realize that his voice matters and that taking action helps create change?
Why is having a supportive group of friends important for Simon?
Why does his friends encouragement give him confidence to use his voice for good?
We can infer about Simon's growth by the end of the book?
How did Simon grow into a more self-assured and courageous individual?
What lesson does Simon learn about making a difference?
How does Simon learn that even small actions can have a big impact and his voice matters?