Pages 5-32

Reading Check

1. It is part of his punishment for a crime he committed. (Pages 5-6)

2. Lying (Pages 9-11)

Short Answer

1. It appears Miguel’s mother is disappointed in him because of his crime, because she will not look at him when he is in juvenile hall. There are many instances early in the novel when Miguel’s mom appears to be at a loss for what to do with Miguel’s and his brother’s behavior. Miguel suggests that his mother would be sad but relieved if Miguel died. (Various pages)

2. He thinks the motivational posters are ridiculous. He thinks the history of the school is irrelevant and ignores it. He also doesn’t understand what use rehabilitation is if he must do it with a bunch of “dummies.” However, his reaction to the counselor and to his mother’s disappointment indicate that Miguel is more troubled by his environment than he pretends. (Various pages)

Pages 33-53

Reading Check

1. He says he stole a bike, earning him the nickname The Bike Thief. (Pages 38-40)

2. Mong and Miguel both self-isolate. (Pages 46-48)

3. Rondell (Pages 48-53)

Short Answer

1. Miguel decides he will dial a wrong number to spare his mother from speaking to him.