Essay Questions

How do James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts develop the theme of bullying in the novel Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life?

Patterson and Tebbetts explore the theme of bullying by closely following the character Miller, the Killer. The authors want to show readers that some students believe they are superior to others because they are strong and come from privileged families. Miller is exploitative, aggressive and cruel towards other students. For instance, Miller wants every student to fear him. When Miller realizes Rafael has a notebook that he uses to disobey school rules, he thinks his authority is under threat. As a result, Miller steals the notebook and demands a big compensation to release it. Miller uses every opportunity to exploit other students financially. In addition, Miller beats any student who tries to challenge his authority.

What is the significance of the character, Jules, and how does she contribute to the novel's plot? J

Jules is Rafael's mother, portrayed as a strict and hardworking woman. Jules is a significant character in the novel because the authors use her to illustrate single mothers' challenges. Jules is divorced from her husband, and she discovers raising a boy child without a father figure is a challenge. When Jules tries to impose strict rules on Rafael, he becomes rebellious. Jules decides to have a boyfriend to act as a father figure to Rafael, but it fails to yield results.

Analyze the emblematic connotation of R.A.F.E. Notebook as used in the novel.

The invention, R.A.F.E (rules are not for everyone), is a notebook that shows Rafael's noncompliance. The notebook contains every rule that Rafael intends to break at school. R.A.F.E. Notebook signifies the boring nature of the school's routines. In Hill Village Middle School, students must attend assembly daily, which annoys Rafael. In addition, students must attend gym lessons after classes. Rafael is the voice of reason because other students fear confronting the harsh school routine. Rafael is a bold boy because he invents a strategy that destabilizes the school's program to allow students to choose a suitable routine.