Plot
Where does Junior go when he asks to leave class in “Hunger Pains”?
the bathroom (library bathroom)
Who becomes Junior’s new romantic interest (girlfriend) in these chapters?
Penelope
What internal conflict does Junior feel about his identity?
He feels caught between being Indian and fitting into the white school.
What school does Junior attend off the reservation?
Reardan High School
What lesson does Junior learn about friendship after the diner experience?
People can be kind and supportive if you trust them
What problem does Junior discover Penelope is dealing with?
Which friend sends Junior a funny but inappropriate photo in an email?
Rowdy
What conflict does Penelope face that others don’t see?
She feels lonely and struggles with bulimia despite seeming perfect.
Where do Junior and Penelope go after the dance?
A diner
What theme is shown through Penelope’s struggles?
Appearances can hide pain
Why is Junior nervous at the diner after the dance?
He doesn’t have money to pay for the food
Who gives Junior money at the diner and later drives him home?
Roger
Why is Rowdy upset with Junior?
He feels Junior abandoned the reservation and their friendship.
Where does Junior communicate with Rowdy online?
The school computer lab
What message does Gordy share about identity and belonging?
It’s important to be yourself even if you don’t fully fit into a group
What happens during Junior’s basketball tryout that impresses the coach?
He gets knocked down by Roger but gets up and scores.
How does Gordy challenge Junior’s thinking about liking Penelope?
He suggests Junior may be influenced by racism and valuing white girls more.
What conflict arises when Junior plays against Wellpinit in a basketball game?
He is torn between loyalty to his community and his new school.
How does the setting of the basketball game create tension for Junior?
It takes place on his reservation, where the crowd turns against him.
How does Junior’s basketball experience develop the theme of perseverance (never giving up)?
He keeps trying despite fear, failure, and injury
How does Junior’s first game against Wellpinit end for him physically and emotionally?
He gets injured (hit with a quarter, stitches) but feels supported and learns perseverance.
Compare Rowdy and Gordy’s roles in Junior’s life during this section.
Rowdy represents Junior’s past and emotional conflict, while Gordy represents intellectual growth and a new identity.
How does Junior’s experience at the dance and diner highlight both internal and external conflict?
Internally, he struggles with shame about poverty; externally, he fears judgment from wealthier peers
How do the two main settings (reservation vs. Reardan) symbolize Junior’s struggles?
They represent two conflicting identities—his cultural roots vs. opportunities for his future
What deeper theme is revealed through Junior’s identity as a “part-time Indian”?
The struggle of navigating multiple identities and the cost of pursuing opportunity while staying true to oneself