Where did Kyle move from?
What are the two new after-school clubs Miss Gray mentions?
How does Kyle describe JB's entrance into the classroom?
What did JB do over the summer that got him in trouble?
What is the name of the school Kyle is attending?
Why do you think Kyle is worried about making friends at his new school? What evidence from the text supports your answer?
What does the phrase "you're the mystery box" mean in the context of Kyle being the new kid? Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Explain your reasoning.
How does the author use figurative language (e.g., "whirlwind of energy," "grin that could light up a stadium") to describe JB? What impression of JB does this create for the reader?
What can you infer about Kyle's personality based on his thoughts and actions in the story? How might his personality affect his experiences at the new school?
Predict how Kyle's first day at Glendale Middle School might set the stage for future events in the story. What challenges or opportunities might he encounter?
Story 2 – The Bully Problem
The second day of school was supposed to be easier, but as I leaned against my locker, a shadow loomed 22over me. It was Toby, the school's resident meathead23, his biceps practically bulging out of his T-shirt.
"Well, well, well," he sneered, "look who it is. The new kid from… where was it again? Hicksville?"
My cheeks burned with embarrassment. "Westwood," I muttered, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Westwood?" Toby scoffed. "Never heard of it. Probably some podunk 24town in the middle of nowhere."
Toby leaned in, his breath hot on my face. "So, farmboy," he said, "how many chickens did you have to count to get into this school?"
I gritted my teeth25. "I'm not a farmer," I said, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Oh really?" Toby smirked. "Well, you sure sound like one. Bet you're really good at chasin' pigs, huh?"
He tapped his forehead with a finger. "Don't worry, new kid. We'll teach you all about big city smarts. Just try not to get lost on your way to the library."
I glared at him for a second, then turned and walked away. But Toby's words stung 26like a swarm of bees. What if he was right? What if everyone here thought I was just a hick 27who didn't belong?
By the time I got to math class, my head was spinning with self-doubt. Miss Miller, a tall, thin woman with a no-nonsense